Apparatus and method for selecting a mechanical seal

ABSTRACT

An automated seal selection, seal design, manufacturing, and post sales system allows a distributor or untrained user to select a replacement seal for a pump. The automated system designs and engineers the seal, whether standard or special, and creates all drawings, documentation, quotations, and other output forms. The automated system initiates selection from inventory or purchasing of materials to be used in the manufacturing operations, creates all manufacturing CNC programs for the components to be manufactured and downloads to CNC from manufacturing equipment. The system allows selection of a seal based upon a seal part number, or selection of a seal based upon the pump into which the seal will be installed and the operating conditions of the pump. The pump may be defined by searching through a database of existing pumps, or may be defined as a new pump if it is not in the pump database. Results of a previous compatibility analysis, perhaps performed by the seal manufacturer, may be accessed for existing pumps, or an on-line compatibility analysis may be performed for new pumps, to determine whether an existing seal fits the pump with no modifications. If no existing seal fits, the system provides two options. In a first option, a special seal is specified which will fit the pump with no modifications to the pump. An integrated design system determines dimensions for the special seal and its various components in real time providing immediate quotations including drawings. With a second option, modifications to the pump are defined so that a standard seal will fit. After a seal is specified, the system recommends materials of construction and allows the customer to select materials and other selectable options. The system then outputs a proposal including drawings with full dimensions, price, modification notes, warnings, a complete bill of materials, an order form, quote form and a dimensions verification form. The system then stores the information in a plant standardization survey for future retrieval. If an order is received, the drawings created using the system may be transferred to a manufacturing center where CNC programs are created in real time enabling immediate manufacturing. All engineering, design, and manufacturing programs may be created without human intervention. The system generated CNC programs may be automatically downloaded to the machine for manufacturing without human intervention.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a division of prior application Ser. No. 09/687,393,filed Oct. 13, 2000 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,662,062, which is a continuationof prior application Ser. No. 09/179,506, filed Oct. 27, 1998 now U.S.Pat. No. 6,173,210, which is a continuation of prior application Ser.No. 09/033,194, filed Mar. 2, 1998, now abandoned each such applicationentitled APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SELECTING A MECHANICAL SEAL and eachsuch application hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to automated systems for supporting selection ofa mechanical seals for equipment. More particularly, the inventionrelates to automated systems for supporting advertising, selecting,designing, manufacturing and providing post sales service and supportfor mechanical seals.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sales and marketing of mechanical seals presently involves severalactivities including seal selection, design and engineering of a seal,manufacturing, and post sales service and support. This process involvesmany different people to gather, manipulate, interpret and process avariety of kinds of information, and is not an exact science.

A mechanical seal is a shaft sealing device provided to contain processfluids within equipment such as a pump, mixer or other rotary equipment.Mechanical seals are used in operations of a typical processing plant.Significant industries that use seals include: pulp and paper, chemicalprocessing, petroleum chemical, oil refining, food processing, and powerand utilities, among others.

There are generally three types of mechanical seals: component (made ofseveral pieces), cartridge (components unitized for one piece) and splitseals. Cartridge seals generally are preferred over component seals forseveral reasons. First, cartridge seals may be installed withoutsignificant training. These seals also may be tested before shipping toensure sealability. However, conversion from a component seal to acartridge seal for an application involves a complex process ofselection of an appropriate seal design.

Because of the variety of applications for seals, selection of a sealinvolves considering several factors. For example, seals typically areconnected to equipment with a rotary shaft (pumps being the most common)for which there are a large variety of commercially available designswith different dimensional profiles. Equipment also may have beenmodified in the field for several reasons, resulting in a nonstandarddimensional profile. Additional factors are the operating conditions ofthe equipment, including process fluids and their combinations, andintentional and unintentional changes in the process fluids used in asystems. Aside from selecting a seal that fits the equipment and issuitable for the given operating conditions, costs of the seal and itsinstallation also are factors.

This selection process therefore generally involves highly trained salesengineers with factory support to perform properly the seal selectionprocess. Their training typically includes mechanical and designengineering and chemical engineering. These individuals typically alsoperform sales, service and support functions. Because of the complexityof the seal selection process, customers tend to be dependent on thesesales engineers. This dependency is due to the complexity of part codesfor these seals.

The expertise level of a sales engineer is generally dependent on thesize of seal manufacturer, years of experience, education and training,resulting in varying competencies. Sales engineers may possess onlyindustry specific expertise, acquired from their experience.Accordingly, without extensive experience, a sales engineer also may bedependent heavily on factory support for assistance in the sealselection process.

Moreover, sales engineers, despite their experience, still may bedependent on factory support because they typically have immediateaccess to selection information limited to common equipment and processfluids, either in printed or computer-readable text form. Otherinformation, such as application data, engineering data, special pricingand drawings may be available only at the factory, requiring the salesengineer to use factory support to derive seal selections or tointerpret the available information and to select a seal. Accuratecommunication between sales engineers and factory engineers is acritical component of this process.

Depending on the resources available to a manufacturer, which may dependon its size or its number of years in business, factory support may belimited to manually intensive selection methods prone to errorsresulting in an informal, unscientific selection process. Even with moresophisticated procedures based on significant amounts of historicalinformation, however, human intervention is generally required for manydecisions made between field sales and factory support personnel becauseof individuals' judgments and perceptions, which may result ininaccurate selections. In particular, a significant amount of humaninteraction is required to gather, interpret, manipulate and analyze theapplication data when the sales engineer requires factory support. Inparticular, the pump and seal dimensions, operating conditions andprocess fluids affect the selection of materials to obtain maximum seallife. The human interaction involved in current selection methods mayresult in different recommendations from different individuals, for thesame application, of a seal model, optional seal features, materials ofconstruction, seal environmental controls, i.e., piping plans, andvarious auxiliary devices to be used with the environmental controls. Inaddition, the likelihood of an error is increased. An error in any stageof the selection process may result in an inaccurate or incompletesealing solution, which translates into premature seal failure andincreased costs.

There are several steps in the seal selection process which typicallyinvolve human interaction. One step is identification of the equipment,e.g., a pump or drive motor or other rotary equipment. The methods ofidentification differ among sales engineers. Example sources ofidentification information include identification tags on the equipment,maintenance records, engineering records, purchasing records, equipmentmanufacturer's records or seal manufacturer's records. If these sourcesprovide incomplete information proper equipment identification may beimpossible. Even if equipment is properly identified, e.g., by make andmodel, modifications may have been made to the equipment. A failure toidentify such modifications results in an erroneous seal selection. As aresult, a trained individual measures the equipment to obtain accuratedimensional data. Dimensional data is commonly collected using forms ofvarying complexity and completeness. Simple forms tend to be incomplete.Complex forms tend to be subject to interpretation by sales engineersand factory engineers. Both kinds of forms result in errors.

A seal model which is dimensionally compatible for the identifiedequipment then is selected. In order to make this selection, a salesengineer may refer to information available in a reference guide, or ifnot identified in a reference guide, performs a dimensional analysis.The dimensional analysis may be performed by the sales engineer or byrelying upon factory support. When application data is received at thefactory, it is reviewed for completeness and accuracy. If the data isnot satisfactory, the process is delayed.

After a dimensionally compatible seal model has been selected, theoperating conditions are identified by the sales engineer and areanalyzed to confirm that the recommended seal is suitable for theprocess performed by the equipment. This analysis involves evaluatingthe operating conditions and the process fluids, with respect to anumber of aspects of the seal, including, but not limited to: ametallurgy for general corrosion resistance; a face material combinationfor lubricity of the chemical and/or corrosion or abrasion resistance;and selection of secondary sealing components, i.e., o-ring elastomersfor temperature and chemical resistance.

The operation conditions include but are not limited to: shaft speed asrelated to seal chamber pressure acting on the seal, i.e.,pressure/velocity; stuffing box/seal chamber pressure, which is afunction of different pump internal part designs (impellers); shaftspeed; pump discharge pressure at outlet nozzle; pump suction pressureat inlet nozzle; pressure/velocity parameters for different seal designsand face material combinations; box pressure calculations based on pumpdesign type; seal face balance design; concentration; temperature;viscosity; the percentage of undissolved or dissolved or fibrous ornonfibrous solids; vapor pressure; specific gravity; and pollutants andother chemicals. Sometimes these values are estimated or are notobtained.

Either the sales engineer or factory support may analyze the operatingconditions, depending on experience and resources. The parameter limitsfor various operating conditions generally are maintained in printedengineering tables by seal type, or may be calculated. If this analysisis performed by untrained individuals using only printed tables andwithout an engineering level analysis, or if incomplete information isused, then the analysis may be inaccurate or erroneous. It may also beinappropriate to select the material of a previous seal.

If the analysis indicates that a standard seal model is not acceptable,appropriate modifications to either a seal or the equipment aredetermined. An engineer may have a limited information guide explainingthe modifications to be made to popular pumps to fit popular seals.Modifications to a seal generally are not provided. Otherwise themodifications are determined, either by the sales engineer or factorysupport, by reference to various guides or by analysis or based onhistorical information such as previous bills of material and factoryengineering drawings. If the information used to make the modificationsis inaccurate or incomplete, an inappropriate modification may be madeto the seal or the equipment.

The process fluids also are analyzed to review characteristics which mayaffect seal selection, such as, but not limited to: volatile hazardousair pollutants, which requires selection of a double seal for absolutezero vapor emission leakage; flammability; toxicity; polymerization;solidification; abrasive slurries; percentage concentration of primaryand secondary chemicals; and minimum and maximum process temperatures.

If a sales engineer has a reference guide with material ratings for aseal, the final seal selection is made by the sales engineer based ontraining and experience. A reference guide also may indicate materialsfor use with only one process chemical, without consideration ofsecondary chemicals which may be present in the process. If the guide isnot complete, factory support may be required for assistance. Anengineer providing factory support analyzes the process to identify theprocess fluid chemical characteristics, for example by utilizingpublished technical reference sources, chemical dictionaries, orhistorical information such as previous bills of material, or by basinga selection on properties of a chemical with similar characteristics. Aswith other steps involving factory support, information may be missingfrom the sales engineer, thus incurring a delay or resulting in anincorrect selection. Because of the complexity of the process fluidanalysis, errors in selection are possible.

The sales engineer also selects optional seal features to obtain optimumseal performance life. Such features include, but are not limited to: atwo piece stationary face (for viscous or polymerizing chemicals); aquench and drain gland (to cool or heat seal faces, or wash awaycrystalline deposits on atmospheric side of the seal faces); and pumpingsleeves for double seals to provide maximum flow of barrier fluid tocool and lubricate the seal faces. The limited information on optionalfeatures in a reference guide may be limited. Otherwise, sales engineersderive the selection of optional features from the chemicalcharacteristics. Whether a given seal has optional features to handlethe application may require factory support for a recommendation.

Another step of the seal selection process is determining the bestenvironmental controls or American Petroleum Institute (API) standardplan. The environmental controls are systems used to cool, lubricate,heat, etc., thereby controlling the environment of the mechanical seal,particularly at the seal faces. For an existing application, the salesengineer identifies the current external piping system and evaluateswhether it should be modified for the application. For a newapplication, the sales engineer identifies piping systems available. Alimited reference guide may help derive selection of the piping plan orfactory support may be required. This aspect of the selection processmay even be neglected or an existing piping plan may be incorrect forthe application, thereby resulting in premature seal failure.Significant interaction between customers, sales engineers, and factoryengineers may be required for proper selection.

Another step of the seal selection process is the selection of a varietyof auxiliary devices, i.e., products external to the seal and typicallyin the piping plan, including but not limited to: supply tanks fordouble seal piping systems; throat bushings for use with external cleanflush systems to seal faces; and flow control devices for external flushsystems for single seals and double seals. As with other aspects of thisprocess, such devices may be selected using limited reference guides, orapplication engineers may calculate the design, size and selection of anauxiliary device. Depending on the type of auxiliary, e.g., throatbushings, equipment dimensions may be needed by an engineer to designand manufacture the device.

After a seal with appropriate materials and optional features,environmental controls and auxiliaries have been selected, anappropriate price is determined along with a bill of materials andspecifications for installation. Current pricing methods for mechanicalseals for standard products typically involves price lists or books. Thepricing book may be complex and may require factory support to beinterpreted in order to arrive at a price for a given seal selection.When special designs are made, a selling price and discount structure ismore complex to determine, and typically involves trained engineers andaccountants. The entire quotation process involves time frames rangingfrom days to weeks.

Ultimately, after quotation and receipt of an order, a seal ismanufactured according to the quotation if the seal is not a standardpart. Manufacturing operations vary based on the size and scope ofproducts offered by a seal manufacturer and the manufacturing processtechnologies used. The kinds of manufacturing equipment used ranges frommanual equipment to computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment invarious combinations depending on the scope of products and rawmaterials for the products. Despite the size of the manufacturer, highlytrained individuals typically are needed for manufacturing.

While some manufacturers may use a computer program to assist in sealselection, such computer programs are generally an automated look-uptable with which a user selects a model number of a pump, acorresponding product line of seals and receives a selection of possibleseals. In some cases, the user may even select the materials for theseals. Such tools generally require either mechanical or chemicalengineering knowledge or a significant amount of experience in order toselect a seal correctly.

In sum, because of the complexity of the seal selection process,manufacturing and marketing of mechanical seals requires sealmanufacturers to be dependent upon highly trained individuals. Customersdepend on sales engineers and the manufacturer for technical support inorder to obtain accurate solutions to field service problems. Because ofcomplexity, delay and cost of the seal selection process, a customer mayreplace a failed seal with a seal of the same type rather than make acorrective selection. Premature seal failure may continue to occur,resulting in excessive operating costs.

The combination of the complexities and requirements of seal selection,quotation, design and engineering, manufacturing and post sales supportprocesses thus produces inconsistent, unscientific and erroneousresults, and increased costs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The various difficulties with existing seal selection methods areovercome by providing a standardized process for gathering, analyzing,interpreting and deriving data relating to the seal selection process.In particular, equipment dimensional profiles for standard equipment arestored in a database. This database may be searched using several kindsof identification information of the equipment. Help information isprovided to indicate to the user how to make proper measurements on theequipment. In addition, dimension verification information is providedto assist the user in verifying that the equipment has not beenmodified.

Given proper equipment identification, a compatibility analysis isperformed between the equipment and seals in a seal database todetermine which seals are dimensionally compatible with the identifiedequipment. This compatibility information may be stored with theequipment information in the equipment database.

A process fluids database specifies recommended materials for variousprocess fluids. A user is prompted to specify process fluids. Thissystem automatically determines which materials are recommended for thespecified process fluids and selects a seal that is available in theselected materials.

A seal specifier uses the information input by the user, the processfluids database, the seal styles database, and the equipment profiledatabase to determine an appropriate seal for the specified equipment.The seal specifier allows a user to select seal based on a known productnumber for the seal, or by specifying information about either equipmentor the seal, and accommodates the addition of a new equipment to theequipment database. The equipment may be identified by specifying theframe or group of the equipment, a part number, or by its dimensions.These varieties of methods allow a non-specialist to select a seal byproviding information simply about the equipment and the process inwhich the equipment is used.

In the process of specifying a seal, the compatibility analysisperformed between the seal and the equipment may indicate that amodification should be made either to a standard seal or to theequipment to fit the standard seal. The specified seal and anymodifications may be provided to a manufacturing center. By including adatabase with a variety of drawings and template programs for a computernumerically controlled machinery, the dimensions of a modified seal maybe inserted into a template program to automatically generate a customseal design to manufacture a custom seal.

The various elements of this system, both individually and in thevarious combinations, automate the many steps of the seal selectionprocess.

By having a seal styles database with established limits for materialsand operating conditions, the system automatically compares the inputprocess fluids and operating conditions to the database to select a bestseal model from among those seals which are dimensionally compatiblewith the equipment. A compatibility rating for process fluids assists inthe prioritization of the seal models available in the recommendedmaterials for the specified process. By allowing a user to specifysecondary chemicals in the process stream, the quality of the sealselection is improved. The material and compatibility ratings andoperating condition limits for a seal model may be compiled frommaterial suppliers and other engineering guides into the process fluidsdatabase and the seals styles database. Similarly, environmental controltyping plans and auxiliary devices may be associated with each sealmodel in the seal style database, automating the selection of suchproducts.

Accordingly, in one aspect an apparatus for determining a seal for apiece of equipment includes a database of equipment profiles and adatabase of seal profiles. A seal selection module is coupled to thedatabase of equipment profiles and the database of seal profiles, theseal selection module having an input that receives data indicative of acharacteristic of the piece of equipment from a user, and an output thataccesses the database of equipment profiles to determine a seal from thedatabase of seal profiles that meets the desired characteristic and fitsthe piece of equipment. Another aspect is the process performed by suchan apparatus.

In another aspect, an apparatus for determining a seal for a piece ofequipment includes a database of equipment profiles and a database ofseal profiles. A compatibility analyzer is coupled to the database ofequipment profiles and the database of seal profiles, having an inputthat receives data indicative of a characteristic of the piece ofequipment, the compatibility analyzer comparing one seal profile withinthe database of seal profiles with the characteristic of the piece ofequipment to determine a modification which, allows the piece ofequipment to accommodate the seal defined by the one seal profile.Another aspect is the process performed by such an apparatus.

In another aspect, an apparatus for defining a plurality of equipmentprofiles includes a database of equipment profiles, each of theequipment profiles defining a characteristic of a respective piece ofequipment, the characteristic being suitable for determining whether aseal is compatible with the respective piece of equipment. The databaseof equipment profiles includes results of a compatibility analysis addedto the database of equipment profiles, the results of the compatibilityanalysis defining a seal that is compatible with the piece of equipmentand that was not previously defined within the database of equipmentprofiles as compatible with the piece of equipment, so that datadefining the piece of equipment and a reference to a seal that iscompatible with the piece of equipment are accessible from the databaseof equipment profiles. Another aspect is the process performed by suchan apparatus.

In another aspect, an apparatus for generating a computer numericallycontrolled program includes a specifier module having a first input thatreceives data defining a characteristic of a piece of equipment, asecond input that receives data defining a desired characteristic of aseal for use in the piece of equipment, and an output that provides aprofile of a seal that is compatible with the piece of equipment. Acomputer numerically controlled program generator has an input thatreceives the profile of the seal and an output that provides a computernumerically controlled program for machining an element of the sealbased upon the profile of the seal, so that the seal is compatible withthe piece of equipment. Another aspect is the process performed by suchan apparatus.

In another aspect, an apparatus for defining a replacement seal for usein a piece of equipment includes a specifier module having a first inputthat receives data defining a characteristic of a piece of equipment, asecond input that receives data defining a desired characteristic of aseal for use in the piece of equipment, and an output that provides aprofile of a seal that is compatible with the piece of equipment. A sealdesign module receives the profile of a seal and produces an output thatprovides dimensions based upon the profile of a seal, the dimensionsdefining a seal that is compatible with the piece of equipment. Anotheraspect is a process performed by such an apparatus.

In another aspect, a computer-implemented method analyzes compatiblybetween a seal and a piece of equipment. Information defining parametersof the equipment and of the seal is received. The parameters of the sealand of the equipment are compared to determine if there is an exactmatch. When an exact mach is not made for a parameter, an indication ofthe difference between the parameter for the seal and the parameter ofthe equipment is stored. When a parameter is absent, an indication ofthe absence of the parameter is stored.

In another aspect, an apparatus for generating a computer numericallycontrolled program includes a database of templates of computernumerically controlled programs, specifying operations for a program formachining an element, without dimensional information. A computernumerically controlled program generator, has an input that receives theprofile of the seal and templates from the database of templates for theseal, and an output that provides a computer numerically controlledprogram for machining an element of the seal based upon the profile ofthe seal, so that the seal is compatible with the piece of equipment.

In another aspect, a method for making a mechanical seal involvespreparing templates of computer numerically controlled programs,specifying operations for a program for machining an element, withoutdimensional information. A profile of a seal and the templates for theseal are received. A computer numerically controlled program formachining an element of the seal is generated based upon the profile ofthe seal, so that the seal is compatible with the piece of equipment.

In another aspect, a computer system for facilitating identification ofequipment for matching with a seal, includes a graphical user interfacethat displays a template having fields and for receiving inputs in thefields defining dimensions of the equipment. The graphical userinterface associates graphical information illustrating how to obtainthe information with the fields in the templates and verifies thecompleteness and type of data in each field in the template. Dimensionalverification information indicating expected dimensions for each of thefields in the template also is provided.

Another aspect is an apparatus or process in which the foregoing aspectsare combined so as to provide a system includes a seal specifier forspecifying a seal, a compatibility analyzer for determining dimensionalcompatibility between a seal and equipment, a design center forgenerating dimensions of modified seals and a manufacturing center forproducing CNC programs to create modified seal components.

These and other aspects and advantages of the present invention are setforth in the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments will be described by way of example withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an example single cartridge seal;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an example double cartridge seal;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a seal selection system according to oneembodiment;

FIGS. 3A and 3B together comprise a flowchart illustrating, according toone embodiment, a process performed by the seal selection system shownin FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a representation of a screen display which prompts a user toenter customer information and seal selection information;

FIG. 5 is a representation of a screen display which prompts a user toenter information about a new customer;

FIG. 6 is a representation of a screen display which prompts a user toenter a part number of a requested seal and any optional features oradditional products requested;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing more detail of a step, in FIG. 3A, ofsearching for a pump in an existing pump database;

FIG. 8 is a representation of a screen display of the seal selectionsystem which provides a list of pumps which meet selected pump searchcriteria and which allows the user to select one of the listed pumps;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing more detail of a step, in FIG. 3A, ofdefining a new pump which is not in the existing pump database;

FIG. 10 is a representation of a screen display of the seal selectionsystem which prompts a user to define a new pump which was notpreviously represented in the pump database;

FIG. 11 is a representation of a screen display which shows contents ofa pump data file in which the compatibility analyzer stores results;

FIG. 12 is a representation of a screen display which shows adimensional profile of a seal model stored in the seal styles file;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating in more detail the operationsperformed by the compatibility analyzer;

FIG. 14 is a representation of a screen display which prompts a user toselect one of four approaches to selecting a seal;

FIG. 15 is a representation of a screen display which displaysrecommendations made by the system about materials of construction andwhich prompts a user to select materials of construction;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart describing the selection process performed forFIG. 14 icon 123;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart describing the selection process performed forFIG. 14 icon 124;

FIG. 18 is a representation of the process fluids database portion ofthe seal selection system;

FIG. 19 is a flowchart describing the selection process performed forFIG. 14 icons 125-133;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart describing the selection process performed forFIG. 14 icons 134;

FIG. 21 is a representation of a screen display which prompts a user toselect a barrier fluid if a double cartridge seal has been selected;

FIG. 22 is a representation of a screen display which, in the event thatno existing standard seal is compatible with the selected pump, promptsa user to select either a modified seal or a modification to a pump;

FIG. 23 is a representation of a screen display in which the systempresents optional features and additional products which are availablefor the seal;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart describing how a design center operates;

FIG. 25 is a representation of an example graphic profile of a sealmodel stored in the seal styles file.

FIG. 26 is a representation of an example worksheet created by thedesign center to calculate dimensions needed;

FIG. 27 is an example chart of bolting and gasket surface specificationsused by the compatibility analyzer and design center;

FIG. 28 is an example manufacturing special print which is generated bythe design center;

FIG. 29 is a representation of a seal sleeve dimensional profile storedin the seal styles file;

FIG. 30A is a first portion of an example proposal automaticallygenerated by the system, including a cutaway drawing and a gland drawingwith applicable dimension indicated;

FIG. 30B is a second portion of an example proposal automaticallygenerated by the system, including pricing information which accountsfor any applicable customer discounts;

FIG. 31 is a representation of an example Manufacturers Special BushingPrint designed by the design center;

FIG. 32 is a representation of an example Manufacturers Special BushingPrint designed by the design center used when components are purchasedfrom an outside source;

FIG. 33 is an example bill of materials including a definition ofmaterials of the selected seal and a drawing of the seal;

FIG. 34 is an example order form which is automatically generated by theseal selection system, allowing a user to order the seal directly fromthe manufacturer;

FIG. 35 is an example dimension verification form used to confirm theseal selected fits on the user's pump, and to confirm the equipment hasnot been previously modified;

FIG. 36 is an example plant standardization survey which compiles quoteinformation for a specific customer; and

FIG. 37 is a flowchart describing operation of a manufacturing center.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention will be more completely understood through thefollowing detailed description which should be read in conjunction withthe attached drawing. All dimensions herein are expressed in inches.However, the present invention may be implemented using any units ofmeasure.

The inherent cost burden of a human intensive approach to mechanicalseal selection, quotation, design/engineering, manufacturing, serviceand support processes is overcome by providing an automated systemwhich, in different aspects, supports these operations without requiringmany highly trained people or significant interaction among salesengineers, factory support and the customer to gather, interpret,manipulate and analyze data.

This automated system supports the selection of seals for complexapplications by analyzing a large number of process fluids and theircombinations, equipment, e.g., pump, dimensional profiles with designvariations and modifications, and operating conditions. Consistent,scientific seal selections thus may be obtained rapidly. The system alsosupports ready conversion of applications to cartridge seals.

FIG. 1A illustrates an example of a single cartridge seal. The seal 17is attached to equipment 18 via bolts 19 and surrounds a shaft 26. Theseal includes a static o-ring gasket between the seal sleeve and pumpshaft or sleeve, as indicated at 1. A static o-ring gasket 2 is providedbetween the sleeve end bore and a rotary face. A static o-ring gasket 3is provided between the gland bore and the stationary face. The gland 7has springs and an o-ring gasket and has a stationary face which isbolted to pump housing to hold the seal in place. The sleeve 8 containstwo o-ring gaskets and a rotary face and transmits drive to the rotaryface with a drive pin. The inboard rotary face 9 is driven by the sealsleeve which is rotating with the pump shaft which provides primarysealing action by running against the stationary face with a thin layerof lubrication between the faces. The inboard stationary face 11 is heldstationary within the seal gland using antirotation lugs and provides aprimary sealing action by the rotary face running against it. The setscrews 13 are contained within the drive collar and transmit drive tothe seal sleeve by engaging the pump shaft or sleeve through holes inthe sleeve. A flat gasket 14 provides a gasket seal between the glandand pump housing face. A snap-ring 15 engages a groove in the sleeve tohold the drive collar with the set screws in place. Springs 16 arecontained within the seal gland and provide mechanical force to keep theinboard stationary face loaded against the rotary face.

FIG. 1B illustrates a double cartridge seal. The double cartridgeincludes the same parts as the single cartridge and an o-ring 5 whichprovides a static o-ring gasket between a drive collar and the insidediameter of the outboard rotary face. A static o-ring gasket 6 islocated between the drive collar and the outside diameter of the sleeve.The outboard rotary faces 10 are driven by a pin in the drive collarwhich rotates with the pump shaft providing primary sealing action byrunning against the outboard stationary face with a thin layer oflubrication between the faces. An outboard stationary face 12 is heldstationary within the outboard side of the gland using antirotation pinsproviding primary sealing action by having the outboard rotary facerunning against it.

Such cartridge seals are constructed from various components into aunitized design. Some components typically are manufactured from either“bar stock” or “tubing,” or from castings. Casted parts generally costless than parts manufactured from bar stock. Castings may be designedsuch that a small number of castings may be compatible for a given setof equipment through an analysis of equipment profiles.

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a system 20 in one embodiment. Thesystem includes an input module 21 which enables the user to select acustomer or add a customer to a database, select a process fluid, enterenvironmental data and select from three paths through the system. A newcustomer 43 may be added to the customer database 30. The customeridentifier is used to return information about the customer as indicatedat 44. From the input module, a user may invoke a seal specifier 22which selects a seal, recommends materials, allows the user to selecteither equipment modifications or seal modifications and recommendsvarious features and products. The profile of a selected seal is outputas indicated at 40. A new pump definition module 24 also may beactivated through the input module 21. This module allows a user toenter information from which a new pump record and pump dimensionalprofile is created. A compatibility analyzer 26 compares dimensions ofthe new pump record to seal dimensions in a seal styles database 33. Theresults from the compatibility analyzer 35 are added to the pumpdatabase 31, along with the pump dimensional profile, frame/group, pumpsizes, bore type and other compatibility results for other pumps. Theinput module 21 also allows the user to activate an existing pumpselector 25. Information about a pump profile, as indicated at 36, maybe used to search a pump database 31 to return profiles 38 of selectedpumps.

The customer database 30 includes a customer identification number,customer name, customer contact information, and may include anidentification of the distributor, a logo for the distributor, and anidentification of any discount amount for that particular customer.Various other kinds of data also may be kept for each customer. Thisinformation is used by the proposal generator 23 to tailor a proposal 27to a particular customer. In one embodiment, customer discounts arehidden from an end user if the user is not the manufacturer.

The pump database 31 includes data which describes a large number ofpumps. The database also may specify other kinds of equipment, dependingon the kind of mechanical part the system is being used to select. Thepump database 31 may include, for each pump, data describing the sealsizes for the pump, the frame or group by which the group iscategorized, the pump size, the bore type, a complete dimensionalprofile, and compatibility results for seal models.

The seal styles database 33 includes a dimensional profile of each seal,graphical drawings, materials available for each seal, and otherfeatures and additional products available, along with CNC programs andtemplates 47. In particular, the seal styles database 33 defines metalmaterials, face materials, and elastomers for each seal style. It alsomay contain a complete listing of compatible optional features andadditional products for each seal. A dimensional profile for each sealas well as a complete set of drawings or graphics for each seal model,template CNC programs for the manufacturing process also may be storedin this database 33. Generally, the seal styles database 33 is definedand maintained by a seals manufacturer.

A process fluid database 32 provides characteristics and recommendationsof the selected process fluid provided by the input module 21, as shownin 37. In particular, the process fluids database 32 includes, for eachfluid which may be pumped by the equipment, a material compatibilityrating for the pump materials, a recommended seal type, recommendedmaterials, and a recommended American Petroleum Institute (API) plan forthe seal. Generally, the process fluids database 32 is defined andmaintained by the seal manufacturer.

The profile of the selected pump 38, the characteristics andrecommendations of process fluid 37 and the dimensions and graphics of aselected seal 39 from a seal styles database are provided to a sealspecifier 22, discussed above. The seal specifier 22 uses the chemicalcharacteristics and recommendations 37 from the process fluid database32, the pump profile selected 28 and the seal dimensional profile 39 tocreate a profile of a selected seal 40. The profile of a selected seal40, dimensions and graphics of a seal 39 and a pump profile and resultsof compatibility analyzer 41 are input to the design center 28. Thedesign center uses pump and seal profiles to draw and calculatedimensions for modified and custom seal components, and outputs resultsas indicated at 42.

The CNC programs and templates 47 from the seal styles database 22 forthe selected seal and the result of the design center 42 are input to amanufacturing center 29 and proposal generator 23. This manufacturingcenter uses results from the design center to create custommanufacturing prints and programs for each of the modified or customcomponents, as output at 46, for manufacturing the components. Inparticular, the manufacturing center uses the dimensions defined by thedesign center 42 and inserts them into template CNC programs 47 from theseal styles database 33 for the selected seal. These programs aredownloaded directly into CNC machinery for manufacturing of a component.

The results of the design center 42 also are provided to a proposalgenerator 23. The proposal generator 23 also receives address anddiscount information 45 about the selected customer. The proposalgenerator produces drawings, price, modification notes, warnings, billsof materials, order forms, dimension verification forms and plantsstandardization surveys, as described below, from which quotationproposals 51 may be produced. An order processing module 50 receives aquotation proposal 51 to produce an order 52 which is provided to themanufacturing center 29.

The system also may include an independently accessible promotion andadvertising module 48 and post sales service and support module 49 whichprovide additional information for use by a sale person or factory,distributor, etc.

In order to create the pump profile and seal styles databases,information from standard pumps and seals may be input into thedatabase. The compatibility analyzer then may be executed to determinethe compatibility of each pump with each seal. The results of thesecompatibility analyses may be stored in the pump profile database. Inthis manner, known modifications for common seals and common pumps maybe stored in the database and need not be recomputed. As a generalprocess, any modifications created by this system may be stored in thedatabase for future use.

In operation, a user activates the input module 21 to enter new customerdata or to select an existing customer, to enter environmental data andto select the relevant process fluid. The user then may proceed to theseal specifier 22 to select a seal if the desired seal is known. If thepart number for the desired seal is not known, and if the pump isdefined within the database 31, then the user may activate the existingpump selector 25. Pump selector 25 may search for a pump in the databasebased on dimensions, frame or group, part number, or other information.If the pump is not in the pump database, the new pump definition module24 may be activated. When the new pump definition module 24 is used toadd a new pump to the database, the compatibility analyzer 26 performs acompatibility analysis based on the definition of the new pump withrespect to the various seals in the seal database and updates the pumpdatabase 31 to include this data relating to the new pump. After a pumphas been defined or selected, the seal specifier 22 may be activated bythe user. The seal specifier 22 then accesses the pump database 31,which includes the definition and compatibility analysis for anyexisting and new pumps defined by the user. The seal specifier 22 alsoallows the user to the select seal style, or to review a list of allseals. The seal database also may include a cross-reference to indicatethat the seal is a replacement for another manufacturer's seal.

When no standard seal model fits the selected pump, the user has twooptions. First, the seal specifier 22 provides a special seal designwhich fits the equipment without modifications to the equipment. Second,the seal specifier 22 may provide a standard seal and specifications ofmodifications to be made to the equipment to fit the seal.

The seal specifier 22, using the process fluids database recommendsmaterials and may provide a list of all available materials withcompatibility ratings for the seal model in use with the specifiedprocess fluid.

After the seal specifier 22 has completed a profile of the selectedseal, the design center 28 designs, draws and calculates dimensions foreach component of the seal, which are then provided to proposalgenerator 23.

The proposal generator 23 generates output forms, including informationsuch as drawings, dimensions, price quotations, modification notes forthe seal or the equipment, warnings, bills of materials, a dimensionverification form, and an order form. The dimensional verification formis provided to the user to ensure that the user has properly measureddimensions of the equipment.

The results from the design center also are used in the manufacturingcenter. The manufacturing center retrieves template CNC programs whichare part of the seal styles database. The template programs includemachining operations without dimensions. The dimensions are insertedfrom the information from the design center. After modification, thetemplates CNC programs with the dimensions of the seal are downloadedinto CNC machinery to produce the new seal.

The various modules in this system may be implemented as computerprograms on a computer system, such as described in more detail below.It should be understood that each of the modules and databases may beseparate computer programs, which may be executed on separate computersand by separate entities. Various modules may be interconnected viaprogramming procedures, or may be programs which share data files on acomputer or may be separate computers interconnected by a computernetwork. The actual sharing of information among the modules may beperformed in any manner.

In particular, the system may be implemented as a combination ofsoftware and data that may be installed and operated by a user on one ormore machines to provide all functions relating to mechanical sealselection. In this arrangement, data for the various databases maychange over time and a manufacturer would periodically provide updatesto the users of the software and data Such updates may be provided usingany means of electronic transmission or through delivery of a storagemedium containing the information. Also in this embodiment, amanufacturer may wish to collect changes to databases made by theirusers in order to continually update their databases of pumps, process,fluids and seals.

In another embodiment, the seal specifier 22 is provided to a user. Thecompatibility analyzer 26, design center 28 and manufacturing center 29may be maintained by a manufacturer. In another embodiment, the sealspecifier and compatibility analyzer may be accessible to a user. Inthis embodiment, the design center 28 and manufacturing center 29 aremaintained by the manufacturer. In another embodiment, a user may haveaccess to the user interface of the seal specifier, for example, througha public computer network such as the Internet, or through anotherremote access medium. In another embodiment, the seal specifier 22, thecompatibility analyzer 26 and the design center 28 may be provided to auser. The manufacturing center 29 in such an instance may be maintainedby the manufacturer. Various other embodiments also are possible.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate in more detail a process through which a sealmay be selected using the system of Figs. The process begins by the userentering customer data in step 60. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate graphicaluser interfaces for this function. Also using a display such as shown inFIG. 4, environmental data and process fluids may be defined in step 61.After input of this information, the user may choose among a number ofselection methods in step 62. In this embodiment, there are threeselection methods. The first selection method involves simply selectinga known seal, in step 63, which is described in more detail below inconnection with FIG. 6. A pump may be searched from an existing databasein step 64, which is described in more detail below in connection withat least FIGS. 7 and 8. A new pump may also be defined in step 65, as isdescribed below in connection with at least FIGS. 9 and 10.

When a seal is selected in step 63, a quote proposal is generated instep 80, which is described in more detail below in connection withFIGS. 30 through 36. An order entry department activates a manufacturingcenter to produce an order in step 81. A manufacturing center then maycreate special manufacturing and scheduling prints for the manufacturingprocesses, may select material to be used, may order materials ifnecessary, and may create programs for computer numerically controlledequipment for manufacturing modified or custom components. Thesemanufacturing center operations are described in more detail below inconnection with FIG. 37.

If the user elects to search for a pump from an existing database, instep 64, the user then may choose from a variety of seal selectionmethods, as indicated in step 67. A graphical user interface for makingthis selection in one embodiment is shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. One methodis to select from available seal models in step 68. This method isdescribed in more detail below in connection with FIG. 16. Acompatibility analysis is then performed in step 72. The materials ofconstruction and process fluid rating are selected and checked in step75, which is described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 15.A component type seal also may be selected in step 71, as anotherselection method, which is described in more detail below in connectionwith FIG. 20.

Another seal selection method is to select the seal family in step 69.This step is described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 19.A seal model is then recommended in step 73. Another method involvesrecommending a model from any family of seals in step 70. This step isdescribed in more detail below in connection with FIG. 17. Either of thelast two methods concludes with a recommendation of materials andconstruction and API plans based on the process plan.

All of these methods of selecting a seal conclude with step 75 ofselecting materials of construction and checking other process and fluidratings, which is described in more detail below in connection with FIG.15.

After step 75, it is then determined if a standard seal fits theindicated equipment in step 76. If not, a modification strategy isselected in step 77, which is described in more detail below inconnection with FIG. 22. Optional features and additional products arerecommended in step 78, which is described below in more detail inconnection with FIG. 23. In step 79, a design center designs, draws andcalculates dimensions for the selected items. This step is described inmore detail below in connection with FIG. 24.

After processing by the design center, quote proposals may be generatedin step 80 and a manufacturing center may generate manufacturinginformation in step 82, as described above.

Each of the steps in FIGS. 3A and 3B will now be described in moredetail in connection with FIGS. 4 through 37. FIG. 4 is a representationof a screen display 90 which prompts the user to enter customer data andother information. The screen display 90 is segmented into differentareas for different data and options selectable by the user. Forexample, in customer data area 91, the user may select a user ID andcustomer ID, if the customer database 30 (FIG. 2) includes a descriptionof the customer. If the customer has been granted a discount, the systemdisplays the amount of the discount within the customer data area 91. Atany time, the user may select any help icon 101, for which the systemmay provide textural information to guide the user through the sealselection process. The system also may have a training program toeducate the system user on how to use the screens of the program or toprovide technical assistance.

Referring now to FIG. 5, if the customer database 30 does not include adescription of the customer, the user may select new customer icon 92(in FIG. 4), after which the system displays a new customer data entryscreen as shown in FIG. 5. The user then fills in the billing andmailing information of the customer in area 110 and the “ship to”information in area 111. The user also sets the customer discount inarea 112. This information may be stored in the customer database 30(FIG. 2).

Referring again to FIG. 4, as in step 61 of FIG. 3, the user definesenvironmental data and at least one process fluid for which thereplacement or new seal will be used, by filling out sections ofenvironmental data entry area 93. The data includes a name of theprocess fluid. If the defined process fluid is not found within theprocess fluids database 32, the user may select the “chemical not found”icon 94. The system then displays guidelines for proceeding, or promptsthe user to contact the manufacturer to define the applicable processfluid. In addition, the manufacturer may populate the process fluiddatabase 32 if desired.

Environmental data, entered by the user into area 93, includes factorssuch as, but not limited to, operating temperature, specific gravity,vapor pressure, viscosity, concentration, shaft speed, box pressure,suction pressure, discharge pressure, and percent of solids. Within thepercent of solids, a percentage of dissolved solids may be defined aswell as a percent of fibrous undissolved solids and percentage ofnon-fibrous undissolved solids. After the environmental data and processfluid data have been entered, the user may choose from among threeselection methods, as indicated in step 62 of FIG. 3.

In the first method, the user activates the Path 1 icon 96 within theseal information area 95, and is shown the quick path screen (FIG. 6)allowing the user to select the seal directly (step 63 of FIG. 3). Asecond selection method selectable by the user by selecting icon 100 isto search from the existing pump database (step 64 of FIG. 3). Detailsof this option are described in more detail in connection with the flowchart of FIG. 7. A third selection option is to define a new pump (step65 in FIG. 3), the details of which are described below in connectionwith the flow chart of FIG. 9 and screen display of FIG. 10. This pathis accessed by selecting icon 97 on FIG. 4.

The first method, activated using icon 96 in FIG. 4, will now bedescribed in more detail in connection with FIG. 6. Through a series ofdrop down menus, the user is prompted to enter a part number, for seals,kits, faces or other part in area 120. In this embodiment, the firstdigit represents the metallurgy; the second digit represents theelastomer (o-ring); the next four digits represent the seal modelnumber; the next four digits represent the seal size; the next digitrepresents the inboard face; and the final digit (only on double seals)represents the outboard face material. The user is then prompted in area121 to select optional features. In area 122, spare parts kits andfactory repairs are quoted. Area 123 displays additional productsavailable, from which the user may select. The quote proposal on theitem selected is provided to the user, as described below in connectionwith FIG. 30. This path prepares a quote proposal for any seals. Withthis option, the compatibility analysis between the pump and theselected seal is not performed. However, this option allows experts touse the system quickly and efficiently to obtain a price quote, oruntrained individuals to select a seal using a part number

The second selection method, activated via icon 100 in FIG. 4, will nowbe described in connection with FIGS. 7 and 8. In step 130, the userselects a pump manufacturer from the list displayed in pump selectionarea 98 of FIG. 4. Then, if the bore type of the pump is known, it maybe selected in step 131 within bore type area 99. For example, the boretype may be unknown, standard bore, large bore/taper bore with large boxface, or large bore/taper bore with standard box face. A help button maybe located in the section to provide a graphic describing the categoriesto aid the user in selecting the correct bore type.

In response to the input bore type and pump manufacturer, the systemdisplays a list of pump models for the selected manufacturer andselected bore type in step 132, from the pump database 31. The userselects a pump model from this list, in step 133.

After a pump model has been selected, the user has several for searchingfor the pump profile. In particular, the user may search the database byseal size, frame or group, or by pump size, in step 134. The option ofsearching by serial number also may be provided. If an identificationtag is not readable and/or original paperwork about the pump is lost, atleast one of the three search engines should enable a positiveidentification of the pump. In step 135, the system displays a list ofmatching seal sizes, frame or group, or pump sizes, depending upon thesearch option selected. The user then selects the choice which matchesthe equipment or selects unknown for a complete listing in step 136.

In step 137, the system displays a list of pumps within the selectedpump model which meet the search criteria, and in step 138 the userselects a pump from the list of pumps displayed. A sample screen forpump selection is shown in FIG. 8, in which the manufacturer 140 and thenumber of matching pumps found 141 are listed, and a description foreach of the matching pumps is provided in area 142. For each matchingpump profile, a selection icon 143 allows the user to select the pumpprofile which matches the pump under consideration. The user may searchagain for a pump profile by activating the search again icon 144. Aphysical dimensional verification form may be provided to the user toallow the user to determine if the pump or equipment has been modifiedfrom its original standard dimensions. If the equipment has beenmodified, the user may enter the modifications as if the pump were a newpump, as described below in connection with FIGS. 9 and 10.

Another method for seal selection, activated through icon 97 in FIG. 4,will now be described in connection with FIGS. 9 and 10. In oneembodiment, a screen such as shown in FIG. 10 is used to receive datadefined by the user. In step 150 (FIG. 9), the system assigns a new pumpidentifier (area 170 of FIG. 10) which allows the system to provide aunique definition of the pump under consideration. In step 151, the userenters, if known, information such as the name of the pump manufacturerinto area 171, the model in area 172, the frame or group into area 173,the pump sizes available into area 174, and the solid shaft/sleeve outerdiameter into area 175. The system recommends the standard default glandtype or allows the user to select a special gland type in area 176,(step 152) only if the user is sure the standard default gland does notfit. The customer may visually select a gland type by viewing the visualgeometry of the existing seal or the equipment the seal fits on. Theuser then may select any gland type. Example glands are, but are notlimited, to standard, round with drill holes, round with rectangularbolt patterns, glands with flats and drill holes, special ellipticaldesigns, round glands with slots on horizontal, special bar stockdesigns, round glands with multiple bolt holes, and standard glandsmodified.

In step 153, the system displays a bolt pattern graphic in area 177 forthe defined gland type and an equipment cutaway drawing in area 178, asshown in FIG. 10. The user defines the equipment type (step 154) in area179, defines the pump bore type (step 155) in area 180, defines thesleeve style, e.g., packing or seal sleeve, (step 156) in area 181. Thesystem recommends the standard default sleeve type or allows the user toselect a special sleeve type in area 182, (step 157) only if the user issure the standard default sleeve does not fit. The customer may decidevisually on the sleeve type, for example by viewing the visual geometryof the existing seal or the equipment. The user then may select anysleeve type. Example sleeve types include, but are not limited to:standard sleeve, straight sleeve with non-standard ID, hook sleeve, stepsleeve, sleeve extensions, and special sleeve designs. The user then maydefine special gland features if requested (step 158) in area 183.Example gland features include, but are not limited to, ID Pilot Gland,OD Pilot Gland, and O-Ring Groove Gland.

The user then defines major dimensions of the pump (step 159) in areas184-200. The major dimensions include box bore in area 184, box depth inarea 185, first obstruction in area 186, number of bolts in area 187,bolt spacing in area 188, bolting size in area 189, stud projection frombox face in area 190, bolt circles in area 191, horizontal distance inarea 192, vertical distance in area 193, existing gland outer diameterin area 194, maximum gland outer diameter in area 195, ID pilot in area196, ID or OD pilot depth in area 197, OD pilot in area 198, sleeveextends from the face in area 199, sleeve steps to shaft size in area200. Horizontal and vertical distances are input only for glands withrectangle bolt patterns. The system may automatically enter “N/A” if around bolt pattern has been selected. The locations of thesemeasurements are displayed on the bolt pattern 177 and cutaway drawing178, so that a user may take the measurements without undue training. Ahelp icon 203 also may be used to present instructions about how toobtain valid information for the dimensions. The manufacturer, model andSolid Shaft/Sleeve OD also are input. The remainder of the informationis optional. In area 201, the user is prompted to answer questionsrelating to the sources used to obtain the equipment dimensions.Example: physical measurements, from equipment prints, or from sealprints. The user also is prompted to confirm the equipment is still inits original state and if not, to explain the modifications made in area202.

After the data described above has been entered by the user, the systemconfirms the data has been entered correctly and adds a new entry to thedatabase (step 160). In order to reduce errors, input values (e.g.,blanks, N/A, numeric values) are based on prompts to the user orpre-specified choices. The system also may provide an alarm if erroneousinputs have been entered or if required information is missing. Thesystem confirms that each dimension is entered according to certaincriteria. In particular, the system confirms that: the SolidShaft/Sleeve OD is a numeric value; the Box Bore, Depth and FirstObstruction dimensions are numeric values or a blank if unknown; thenumber of bolts is a numeric value or blank; the bolt spacing is anumeric value, a blank if unknown or a “U” if the spacing is unequal.The bolting size may be selected from a drop down menu of common boltingsizes, or a numeric value other than those listed may be entered, or thefield may be left blank if unknown. The Bolt Circle and Stud Projectiondimensions are numeric values or blank if unknown. The Gland OD Existingand Gland OD Maximum are numeric values or blank if unknown. The IDPilot, Pilot Depth, OD Pilot, Sleeve Extends from Face and Sleeve Stepsto Shaft Size are numeric values, or a blank if unknown or N/A if notapplicable. An example of a file where this information may be may bestored is shown in FIG. 11, which is described in more detail below.

After adding the pump data in the database, in step 161, the systemanalyzes the pump dimensions provided in step 159 to determine the mostcompatible seal model for each seal type. FIG. 12, which is described inmore detail below, represents a seal dimensional profile which may beused for this analysis.

All seals may be categorized by seal type, for example single cartridgeseal, double cartridge seal, double cartridge seal with pumping ring,single cartridge model 3500 seal, metal bellows for chemical service,metal bellows for high temperature service, high pressure cartridgedesigns, double cartridge (gas barrier design), dry running singledesign for mixers, double cartridge for mixer with liquid lubrication orgas barrier design, split mechanical seals, component type seals, API(American Petroleum Institute) design seals, etc. The systemaccommodates any commercially available seal types and can be expandedto accommodate new seal types. The examples below are for common sealtypes: Single, Double, Double with Pumping Ring, 3500. Other type sealsare not shown but may be calculated in a similar manner.

For single, double and double with a pumping ring, the following formulais used. If the seal size is less than 0.896 or greater than 5.020 norecommendation is made. If the seal size is between 1.021 and 1.145 orbetween 1.271 and 1.395, a narrow cross section seal is recommended. Ifthe actual gasket outer diameter (FIG. 12, area 274) minus the box bore(FIG. 10, area 184) is greater than zero, the standard model isrecommended. If the result was less than zero the larger bore model isrecommended.

If a model is determined to be compatible in step 161, the systemassigns a model number in area 210 of FIG. 11, (step 162). If no modelis recommended, in step 163 the system assigns an alternate seal type inarea 211 of FIG. 11. For example, if Style 3500 is not available in a4.00 inch size, the system recommends an alternate of the standardsingle type seal.

In step 164, the compatibility analyzer performs a compatibilityanalysis, which is described below in connection with FIG. 13, for eachpotential seal model. In step 165, they system sets the “Seal FitsEquipment” notes (area 214), and the “Equipment Fits Seal” notes (area215), and stores the results of the compatibility analysis in the pumpdatabase (areas 216-229). These steps complete step 66 of FIG. 3A.

An example of a seal dimensional profile is shown in FIG. 12. Theprofile includes, but is not limited to having, the seal size 250,minimum bore 251, maximum bore 252, inside length 253, outside length254, minimum bolt circle for several bolt sizes, such as ⅜ (255), ½(256), ⅝ (257), ¾ (258), the slot width 259, gland outer diameter 260,gland flat 261, sleeve outer diameter 262, gland length 263, bar glandlength 264, o-ring position 1 (265), position 2 (266), position 3 (267),position 4 (268), position 5 (269), position 6 (270), actual castingouter diameter 271, actual slot inner diameter 272, outer diameter ofshroud on casting 273, actual gasket outer diameter 274, counter bore ingland 275, bar shroud outer diameter 276, inboard balance diameter 277,outboard balance diameter 278, outboard internal obstruction 279,inboard internal obstruction 280, and internal depth obstruction 281.Additional fields may be displayed or added for other seal types whereappropriate.

The compatibility analyzer performs a series of calculations, which isdescribed in more detail below in connection with FIG. 13, which comparethe pump dimensions, supplied by the user using the interface FIG. 10,to the seal profile dimensions, shown in FIG. 12.

These calculations are performed to determine if a standard or specialdesign should be used to fit the pump. The results of the calculationsare stored in the pump database and used later in the design center toengineer and design special seals and components. If modifications aresuggested, the system recommends two options:

1. modifications to the seal so that the seal fits; and

2. modifications to the equipment so that the standard seal fits theequipment.

FIG. 11 illustrates a display for the results of the compatibilityanalyzer. Section 231 and 232 reflects the information entered by theuser using the interface of FIG. 10. Sections 210-229 displayinformation generated by the compatibility analyzer. In particular, thisinformation may include the gland type in box 212, sleeve type in box213, “Seal fits equipment” notes in box 214, “Equipment fits seal” notesin box 215, and the values of various calculations in boxes 216-229,which will now be described in connection with FIG. 13.

In FIG. 13, in step 300, the system matches the actual shaft/seal sizefrom FIG. 10 area 175 to standard seal sizes from FIG. 12, area 250. Ifa match is found, the system continues to the “Seal fits in box”calculation, step 305. If an exact match is not found, in step 301 it isdetermined if the shaft/seal size is within the range of tolerance,e.g., +0.001 to −0.005, of a standard seal size. If the size is withinthis range, processing continues with step 305.

If the size is not within the desired range of the standard seal size,it is then determined, in step 302, if the shaft size is within therange of −0.104 to +0.020. If the size is within this range, the sleevetype is set to 2 in box 213 of FIG. 11, a modification note 501D is setin box 215 of FIG. 11 and the results are stored in box 229 in step 303.

“A” notes are verification notes which ask the user to verify adimension not stored in the pump database. “C” notes are glandmodification notes which explain what modifications the user must maketo the equipment for a standard gland to fit and only seen on the “userwill modify equipment” path. “D” notes are sleeve notes which explainwhat modifications the user must make to the equipment for a standardsleeve to fit and is only seen on the “user will modify equipment” path.“N” note are modifications the user must make to the equipmentregardless of the modification strategy selected.

Processing then continues with step 305. If the size is not in therange, then in step 304 the model recommended is set to blank and thealternate (Box 211 of FIG. 11) is set to 99.

If the shaft size matches the entered seal size, or is within a desiredrange, as determined in steps 300, 301 and 302, processing continueswith step 305. In step 305, it is determined if the box bore dimension(FIG. 10, area 184) is blank. If it is blank, the verification note502A, in sections 214 and 215 of FIG. 11, is set in step 306 andprocessing continues to step 309.

If the box bore dimension is not blank, it is then determined if thedifference between the box bore and the outer diameter of the sleeve,plus 0.030, is positive. The box bore is from FIG. 10, area 184 and thesleeve outer diameter is from FIG. 12 area 262. If this result ispositive, processing continues with step 309. If the result is negative,a modification note 502N is set in area 214 and 215 of FIG. 11, andprocessing continues with step 309.

In step 309, it is determined if the box depth dimension (FIG. 10 area185) is blank. If it is blank, in step 312 the verification note 504A isset in sections 214 and 215 of FIG. 11, and processing continues withstep 313. If the dimension is not blank, in step 310 it is determined ifthe difference between the box depth and the inside length plus 0.005 ispositive. The box depth is from FIG. 10 area 185 and the inside lengthis from FIG. 12 area 253. If the result is positive, processingcontinues with step 313. If the result is negative, in step 311 themodification note 504C is set in area 215, the gland type 9 is set inarea 212, and the negative result is stored in area 216. Processingcontinues with step 313.

In step 313, it is determined if the first obstruction dimension (FIG.10 area 186) is blank. If it is blank, in step 314 the verification note505A is set in sections 214 and 215 of FIG. 11, and processing continueswith step 319. If the dimension is not blank, in step 315 it isdetermined if the difference between first the first obstruction andoutside length is positive to −0.006. The outside length is from FIG. 12area 254. This difference if it is positive to −0.006, processingcontinues with step 319. If this difference is negative, processingcontinues with step 316. Instep 316, it is determined if this differenceis within the negative range of −0.007 to −0.125. If it is, in step 317the modification note 505C is set in section 215, gland type is set to12 in area 212, and the result of the calculation is stored in area 219.Processing continues with step 319. If this difference is not betweenthe range, in step 318 the modification note 505N is set in both areas214 and 215, and processing continues with step 319.

In step 319, it is determined if the number of bolts (FIG. 10, area 187)is blank. If it is, in step 320 the verification note 506A is set inareas 214 and 215 of FIG. 11, and processing continues with step 325. Ifit is not blank, in step 321 it is determined if the number of bolts istwo or four. If the number of bolts is two or four, processing continueswith step 325. If it is not two or four, in step 322 it is determined ifthe number of bolts is an even number. If it is even, in step 323modification note 506N is set in areas 214 and 215, and processingcontinues with step 325. If the number of bolts is odd, in step 324modification note 506C is set in area 215, gland type is set to 10 inarea 212, the number of bolts is stored in area 218, and processingcontinues with step 325.

In step 325, it is determined if bolt spacing (FIG. 10 area 188) isblank. If this field is blank, in step 326 a verification note is set inareas 214 and 215 of FIG. 11 and processing continues with step 331. Ifthis field is not blank, in step 327 it is determined if the userentered “U” for uneven. If any value other than “U” was entered thenprocessing continues with step 331. If the value is “U,” then in step328, it is determined if the number of bolts was even. If the number ofbolts was even, in step 329 a modification note 507N is set in area 214and 215, and processing continues with step 331. If the number of boltsis odd, in step 330 a modification note 507C is set in area 215, glandtype is set to 4 in area 212, and the value “U” is stored in area 220.Processing then continues with step 331.

In step 331, it is determined if the bolt size (FIG. 10, area 189) isblank. If this field blank, in step 332 a verification note 508A is setin areas 214 and 215 and processing continues with step 335. If thisfield is not blank, in step 333 it is determined if the differencebetween the slot width and the bolting size is positive. The slot widthis from FIG. 12, area 259. If this difference is positive, processingcontinues with step 335. If negative, in step 334 a modification note508C is set in area 215, gland type is set to 12 in area 212, and anegative result is stored in area 220. Processing continues with step335.

In step 335, it is determined if the bolt circle (FIG. 10, area 191) orbolt size area 189 is blank. If either is blank, in step 336 averification note 509A is set in areas 214 and 215 and processingcontinues with step 339. If not blank, in step 337 it is determined ifthe difference between the bolt circles and the bolting size, less theactual slot inner diameter, is positive. The actual slot inner diameterfrom FIG. 12, area 272. If this result is positive, processing continueswith step 339. If negative, in step 338 a modification note 509C is setin area 215, gland type is set to 12 in area 212, and the result isstored in area 221. Processing then continues with step 339.

In step 339, it is determined if the bolt circle (FIG. 10, area 191) isblank. If blank, in step 340 a verification note 510A is set in areas214 and 215 and processing continues with step 350. If not blank, instep 341 it is determined if the difference between the bolt circle andthe hex nut head maximum width across corners, less the outer diameterof the shroud on the casting, is positive. The hex nut head maximumwidth across corners is from FIG. 27 area 620 and the outer diameter ofthe shroud on the casting is from FIG. 12, area 273. If the result ispositive, processing continues with step 342. If negative, processingcontinues with step 350.

In step 350, it is determined if the bolt circle (FIG. 10, area 191) isblank. If blank, in step 351 a verification note 511A is set in areas214 and 215 and processing continues with step 355. If not blank, instep 352 it is determined if the difference between the bolt circle andthe cap screw maximum head diameter less the outer diameter of thecasting is positive. The cap screw maximum head diameter is from FIG. 27area 622, and the outer diameter of the shroud on the casting is fromFIG. 12, area 273. If this result is positive, in step 353 amodification note 530N is set in areas 214 and 215 and processingcontinues with step 355. If the result is negative, in step 354 amodification note 511C is set in area 215, gland type is set to 12 inarea 212, and the result is stored in area 222. Processing thencontinues with step 355.

In step 342, it is determined if the bolt circle (FIG. 10, area 191) isblank. If blank, in step 343 a verification note 513A is set in areas214 and 215 and processing continues with step 345. If not blank, instep 344 it is determined if the difference between the actual castingouter diameter and the sum of the bolt circle and the hex nut headmaximum width across corners is positive. The actual casting outerdiameter is from FIG. 12, area 271 and the hex nut head maximum withacross corner is from FIG. 27, area 620. If the result is positive,processing continues with step 355. If the result is negative,processing continues with step 345.

In step 345, it is determined if either the bolt circle or bolting sizeis blank. If blank, in step 346 a verification note 514A is set in areas214 and 215 and processing continues with step 355. If not blank, instep 347 it is determined if the difference between the actual castingouter diameter and the sum of bolt circles and bolting size is positive.The actual casting outer diameter is from FIG. 12, area 271. If theresult is positive, a modification note 514N is set in areas 214 and 215and processing continues with step 355. If negative, in step 349 amodification note 514C is set in area 215, gland type to 9 is set inarea 212, and the result is stored in area 223. Processing thencontinues with step 355.

In step 355, it is determined if the existing gland outer diameter (FIG.10, area 192) is blank. If blank, processing continues with step 357. Ifnot blank, in step 356 it is determined if the difference between theouter diameter of the existing gland and the actual casting outerdiameter is positive. The actual casting outer diameter is from FIG. 12,area 271. If the result is positive, processing continues with step 361.If negative, processing continues with step 357.

In step 357, it is determined if the maximum gland outer diameter isblank. If blank, in step 358 a verification note 516A is set in areas214 and 215 and processing continues with step 361. If not blank, instep 359 it is determined if the difference between the maximum glandouter diameter and the actual casting outer diameter is positive. Themaximum gland outer diameter is from FIG. 10, area 195, and the actualcasting outer diameter is from FIG. 12, area 271. If the result ispositive, processing continues with step 361. If negative, in step 360 amodification note 516C is set in area 215, gland type to 12 is set inarea 212, and the result is stored in area 224. Processing thencontinues with step 361.

In step 361, it is determined if the ID Pilot value (FIG. 10, area 196)is blank. If blank, in step 362, a verification note 518A is set inareas 214 and 215 and processing continues with step 371. If not blank,in step 363, it is determined if the ID Pilot value is “N/A.” If yes,processing continues with step 371. If the value is not “N/A,”processing continues with step 364. In step 364, it is determined if thedifference between the actual gasket outer diameter and ID Pilot valueis negative. The actual gasket outer diameter is from FIG. 12, area 274.If negative, in step 365 a modification note 518C is set in area 215,gland type is set to 9 in area 212, and the results are stored in area226. Processing then continues with step 380. If positive, in step 366it is determined if the shaft/seal size is less than 2.625. If yes, instep 367 the difference between the actual gasket outer diameter and theID Pilot is divided by two. If this value is less than 0.105, then instep 368, a modification note 517C is set in area 215, gland type is setto 9 in area 212, and results are stored in area 225. Processing thencontinues with step 380. If the value is less than or equal to 0.105,processing continues with step 380. If the shaft seal size was less thanor equal to 2.625, in step 369 it is determined if the value is lessthan 0.170. If not, processing continues with step 380. If yes, in step370 a modification note 517C is set in area 215, gland type is set to 9in area 212, and results are stored in area 225. Processing continueswith step 380.

In step 371, it is determined if the box bore value from FIG. 10, area184 is blank. If blank, in step 372 a verification note 517A is set inareas 214 and 215 and processing continues with step 380. If not blank,in step 373 it is determined if the difference between the actual gasketouter diameter and the box bore value is negative. The actual gasketouter diameter is from FIG. 12, area 274. If negative, in step 374 amodification note to 517C is set in area 215, gland type is set to 9 inarea 212, and results are stored in area 225. Processing continues withstep 380. If the result was positive, in step 375 it is determined ifthe shaft/seal size is less than 2.625. If no, in step 376 it isdetermined if the difference between actual gasket outer diameter andthe box bore value, divided by two, is less than 0.170. If yes, in step377, a modification note 517C is set in area 215, gland type is set to 9in area 212, and the result is stored in area 225. Processing thencontinues with step 380. If the result is greater than 0.170, processingcontinues with step 380. If the shaft/seal size is less than 2.625, instep 378 it is determined if the result is less than 0.105. If yes, instep 379 a modification note 517C is set in area 215, gland type is setto 9 in area 212, the result is stored in area 225. Processing thencontinues with step 380. If result is greater than 0.105, processingcontinues with step 380.

In step 380, it is determined if the “sleeve extends from face” value isblank. If blank, in step 381 a verification note 519A is set in areas214 and 215 and the compatibility analysis is complete. If not blank, instep 382 it is determined if the difference between the sleeve extendsfrom face value and the outside length, less 0.151, is positive. Thesleeve extends from face value is from FIG. 10, area 199, and theoutside length is from FIG. 12, area 264. If this result is positive,the compatibility analysis is complete. If the result is negative, instep 383 it is determined if the difference between outside length, less0.380, and the sleeve extends from face value is positive. If thisdifference is positive, in step 384 a modification note 519D is set inarea 215, sleeve type is set to 3 in area 213, the result is stored inarea 227. If the result is negative, in step 385 a modification note520D is set in area 215, sleeve type is set to 4 in area 213, the resultis stored in area 227. At this point, the compatibility analysis iscomplete.

After the compatibility analysis is complete, the system analyzes thedata produced. If more than one gland type was recommended, the systemselects the gland type in the following order of priority highest first:10, 4, 9, 12. Each gland type of a higher priority builds uponcharacteristics of the other types of lower priority. A gland 12 is theresult of minor modifications to a standard gland. A gland 9 is theresult of major modifications and is made out of a blank casting or barstock. This gland encompasses modifications included in the gland 12. Agland 4 is a custom gland with a rectangular bolt pattern but caninclude the modifications of the glands 12 and 9. Gland 10 is a customround gland with multiple bolt holes. This gland may includecombinations of gland types 10, 4, 9, and 12. The combination of glandsis designed for accommodating as many pumps and seals as are available.

If more than one sleeve was recommended, the system chooses the highernumber sleeve. As with the glands, a sleeve of higher priorityencompasses the modifications of a sleeve of a lower priority. Forexample a sleeve 3 includes modifications from sleeve 2 and sleeve 4includes modifications from 2 and 3. The system then sets the dimensiontype in area 230 of FIG. 11. If all dimensions are provided, the Aoption is selected. If only one dimension is blank, the B option isselected. If the add a pump path has been selected, or if two or moredimensions are blank, the C option is selected. If all dimensions areblank, the D option is selected. The dimension type is used to determinethe dimensions to be verified before the user can place an order.Variations to the compatibility analysis in FIG. 13 may be made toaccommodate various mechanical seals.

Having now described the compatibility analyzer, the seal specifier willnow be described. FIG. 14 represents a screen display provided by thesystem at step 67 (FIG. 3A). The user selects one of the four differentseal selection methods (icons 423-428 and 431-434) then selects icon 430to select the materials of construction.

If desired by the user, the seal model may be selected from a drop downmenu for the seal currently being used in the actual equipment, in area420. The system recommends a replacement seal which replaces the sealmodel currently being used to ensure the user receives a quote which iscomparable to the seal currently being used.

A competitive analysis may be initiated by selecting competitiveanalysis icon 421. The competitive analysis may be stored as a data fileor text which provides a description of the advantages and disadvantagesof the current seal model. This information may show a detailedcomparison between the seal model being used and the comparable sealmodel from another manufacturer.

Additionally, the user may initiate an internal analysis by selectinginternal analysis icon 422. In one embodiment, the internal analysis isprivate information which may be used, for example, by distributors ormanufacturers, and would normally not be distributed to third parties.This information may show a detailed description of the current sealmodel and may explain the differences between the manufacturer's productand the current seal model. It may contain marketing strategies or otherinformation regarding selling of a manufacturer's seal for replacing thecurrent seal model.

By selecting icon 429, the user may view and print any product brochuresfor any seal model stored in the seal styles file. The brochures maycontain graphics and a description of features of the seal, as well asdimensional information. If a distributor is using the system or hasgiven the system to their customer, the distributor's logo may bedisplayed on the brochure. This addition of a logo allows thedistributor to create high quality product brochures for low cost forany seal models upon demand from the customer.

The user also may decode the part number of a current seal by selectingicon 437 shown on FIG. 14. The user may be presented a list of sealmanufacturers. After selecting the manufacturer, the system may presenta series of drop down menus through which the part number of the currentseal may be created by the user. The system decodes the part number andshows the user the seal type, size, materials, and other information onthe current seal. Such a decoding system may display its results on thematerial selection screen (FIG. 15, section 446, which is describedbelow) enabling conversion from a current seal to a cartridge seal or anin-kind replacement seal from another manufacturer.

Referring again to the seal selection portion of FIG. 14, there aregenerally four ways to select a seal. In the first method, which isdescribed in connection with FIG. 16 and indicated as steps 68 and 72 onFIG. 3A, the user selects icon 423 on FIG. 14, in step 460, and inresponse is provided with a list of seals (step 461) from which the usermay select one seal model in step 462. After the user has selected amodel, the system then performs the compatibility analysis in step 463,as described above detailed in connection with FIG. 13, for the modelselected. The system is then displays the Materials of Constructionscreen, shown in FIG. 15, which is described below, where materialrecommendations are displayed or where the user may select materials.

In the second method, which is described now in connection with FIG. 17and as indicated on FIG. 3A as step 70, the user selects icon 424 onFIG. 14 in step 470. The system recommends, in step 471, either a singleor double mechanical seal for an application. A process fluid file ismaintained and contains a field called the o-ring seal (see FIG. 18,487). This field stores what the manufacturer has predetermined to bethe best type of seal, based on the characteristics of the processfluid. The coding system includes a number and a material code. Thenumber indicates the recommended seal type. For example, “1” indicates asingle cartridge seal; “2” indicates a double cartridge seal with apumping ring; and “3” indicates a bellows type seal. The material codesthen follow the seal type in the following format: the first letterindicates the recommendation for the metal, the second letter indicatesthe recommendation for the o-ring, the third letter indicates therecommendation for the inboard face, and the fourth letter, used onlyfor double seals, indicates the recommendation for the outboard face.The single seal does not require an outboard face and therefore does nothave a fourth letter designation. Other letter combinations may be usedfor other types of seals.

After the seal type is determined, the system checks the pump data filefor the recommended model in step 472. The system checks the results ofthe compatibility analyzer for the seal type and retrieves the modelrecommended by that process. See FIG. 11, 210. Any models may beprogrammed to be the recommended seal model for an application. Thisexample shows the 1: designation in the process fluid file,corresponding to the “Single −3000, 3001, 3005, 3400, 3700” field in thepump data file which corresponds to field 210, the 2: designation in theprocess fluid file, corresponding to the “Double −3220, 3225, 3221” inthe pump data file, etc. The system recommends the materials ofconstruction, and API plans as shown in step 74 of FIG. 3A, based on theinformation from FIG. 18, area 487.

In the third method, the system recommends a model based on the familyselected by the user, as indicated on FIG. 3A as steps 69 and 73.Referring now to FIG. 19, the user selects one of the seal types in step500 by selecting one of the icons 425-428 or 431-433 in FIG. 14, towhich the system responds by recommending a seal/material combination(step 501). The system first checks the pump data file (FIG. 11, 210)for the model recommended for this seal type by the compatibilityanalyzer. After the model has been determined, the system in step 502refers to the predetermined field in the process fluid file thatcontains the material recommendation for the specific seal type. SeeFIG. 18, area 488. The system then creates the recommendations for thematerials of construction and API plans, based on the information fromthe process fluid file (step 74 of FIG. 3A). If the model field (FIG. 11area 210) in the pump data file does not have a value but has analternate seal type recommended in area 211 of FIG. 11, the user may beprompted to select the alternate seal style because the seal styleselected is not compatible with the characteristics of the process fluidthey are pumping. The same scenario can occur if the manufacturer hasnot made a recommendation for the seal type selected in the processfluid file. The system uses the alternate seal type recommended in area489 of FIG. 18.

In the fourth seal selection method, as indicated in FIG. 3A as step 71,the user selects icon 434 in FIG. 14. See FIG. 20, step 510. Inresponse, the user is provided with a listing of component type seals toselect from in step 511. The user then may select a component type instep 512. The system then provides the user with a listing of the sizesavailable for the component type selected in step 513. The user thenselects the size in step 514. The system then performs a compatibilityanalysis, as described in FIG. 13 for the selected component type. Thesystem then presents to the user the materials of construction screen(FIG. 15) to select the materials in step 515.

Referring now to FIG. 18, a representation of a portion of the processfluids database is shown. The following information is a portion of theprocess fluid profile stored in the process fluid file. Area 480contains the process fluid name. Area 481 contains the concentrationrange for the process fluid. Some process fluids are listed many timesshowing the different concentration levels, because the concentrationlevel effects material compatibility and characteristics of the fluid.Area 482 contains the maximum temperature for the process fluid. Area483 contains API plans recommended by the manufacturer for single seals.Area 484 contains a specific heating and cooling plan recommended by themanufacturer for single seals. Area 485 contains API plans recommendedby the manufacturer for double seals. Area 486 contains a specificheating and cooling plan recommended by the manufacturer for doubleseals. Area 487 contains the manufacturer's recommended seal style andconstruction for this fluid. For example, if the recommendation beginswith a “1:,” a single seal is recommended. If the recommendation beginswith a “2:” a double seal is recommended.

Area 488 contains recommended materials of construction for the sealtype shown above it. Area 489 contains an alternate seal type torecommend if the recommended seal type is not available in therecommended materials of construction. Area 490 contains the materialcompatibility rating for each of the metals used in mechanical seals.Area 491 contains the material compatibility rating for each of the facematerials used in mechanical seals. Area 492 contains the materialcompatibility rating for each of the o-ring materials used in mechanicalseals. Area 493 contains the viscosity rating. Area 494 contains theadditional information package number. Area 495 contains any notesdescribing the pertinent properties of this fluid. Other informationfields also may be provided.

After the seal has been selected, and the system has a recommendedmaterials of construction, the user is presented a materials ofconstruction screen such as the one shown in FIG. 15. The systemdisplays the material choices which are available for the recommendedseal model or the seal model selected in the outer left hand column. Ifthe user has selected a path in which the system recommends thematerials, the system shows recommendations by highlighting the choicefor each of the components. The metals available are displayed in area440 and the recommendation is set by using the first letter in theprocess fluid code (from FIG. 18, area 487 or 488) for the chosenselection method. If a double seal was selected or recommended the useris presented with both the inboard and outboard faces available, atareas 442 and 443. If a recommendation for faces is provided, the systemuses the third letter of the recommendation from the process fluid file(FIG. 18 area 487 or 488) to recommend the inboard face and the fourthletter of the code from the process fluid file to recommend the outboardface. If a single seal was selected or recommended only area 442, theinboard faces, is displayed. The elastomers available for the seal modelselected or recommended are displayed in area 444, and therecommendation is set by the second letter of the process fluid code(FIG. 18, area 487 or 488) recommendation for the recommended seal type.The system also recommends an API plan in area 445. The system also atthis time may analyze the percentage of solids in the process fluid todetermine if special hard face materials are used for this application.If the user has entered a percentage of solids value, the systemrecommends the use of face material E or F. Based on a dissolvedpercentage of solids greater than 11% or a solid non-fibrous valueprovided, the system also may recommend the use of API plan 32 and 54.Area 441 in FIG. 15 provides the complete compatibility rating for eachof the materials available with the API Plans recommended for theprocess fluid, so that the user may determine if any other choice ofmaterials would be acceptable. The user, in step 75 of FIG. 3A, then mayselect or change the recommendations for the desired materials ofconstruction, API plans, and a heating and cooling plan.

In area 441, the user may select a different process fluid and may viewits material ratings, with the manufacturer's recommended materialshighlighted in this area to enable the system user to select the bestmaterials for the application handling the situations encountered. Thesecondary process fluid(s)' characteristics may differ from the primaryprocess fluid and may require different materials overriding therecommended materials of construction for the primary process fluid andAPI plan choices, etc. This selection is especially useful if more thanone process fluid is used with the same seal/pump combination. The usermay change any of the recommendations. This selection also allows theuser to standardize the seals being purchased. If the same seal modeland size is being used throughout the plant, the user may view thevarious process fluids and determine if a standard seal construction isacceptable for all applications. This standardization allows the user tostock fewer spare seals, as the spare seal may now be used for a varietyof processes.

Area 446 displays the results from the cross reference section activatedearlier in FIG. 14, icon 437. These results allow the user to view thecurrent seal's materials of construction and select an exact match tothe current seal. Also, by comparing the results of the cross referenceto the compatibility ratings in the center column “Quick Reference,” inarea 441, the user can determine if the original seal was suitable forthe process. This feature can help explain why some seals may havefailed prematurely, and facilitates both the replacement of exactin-kind seals with the same materials of construction and the conversionfrom another seal model by displaying the materials of construction.

If a double cartridge seal has been selected, the system automaticallyprompts the user to select a barrier fluid. An example of a screen bywhich such selection may be prompted is shown in FIG. 21. The listing inthis screen includes common barrier fluids, and provides the user withthe temperature limitations and other information for each fluid. Thisinterface allows the user to select a barrier fluid in area 520 whichbest suits the process which uses the seal. By displaying thetemperature limitations and the comments, the user may determine if theuse of the wrong barrier fluid may have been an issue in past sealfailures. This interface also accommodates gas barrier buffer systemsused with gas technology seals and may be expanded to accommodatevarious kinds of barrier fluids.

Referring again to FIG. 3B, in step 76, the system determines whether astandard design fits the pump. This decision is based on the informationin the pump data file obtained through the compatibility analyzer. Ifthe compatibility analyzer has recommended modified or custom components(where FIG. 11 area 212 or 213 has a value other than 1), the systemprovides the user with two modification strategies.

FIG. 22 is a representation of the screen displayed by the system forthe selection of a modification strategy. The user selects a strategy inarea 525. In the first strategy, the user is given a quote proposalbased on a modified seal. The system prices the seal, adding a specialpart number and price. The system also displays drawings showing detailsof the modified seal along with the newly calculated dimensions. Fromthis display the user may confirm that the new design fits theequipment. This part of the system replaces the timely engineeringprocess that currently is being used to design and quote modified seals.If upon receipt of the quote, the user does not wish to proceed with themodified seal, or would like to see the difference in the twostrategies, this screen may be displayed again and the user may selectthe alternate path. A user may discover that a modified seal is lesscostly than actually modifying equipment.

In the second strategy, the user is given a quote proposal based upon astandard seal with standard drawings. The modification notes necessaryto modify the equipment are displayed below the seal drawings. If uponreceipt of the quote, the user does not wish to proceed with the optionselected, this screen may be redisplayed and the user may select thealternate path. The user may discover that the cost of modifyingequipment is less costly than purchasing a modified seal every time theprocess is changed or the seal fails or to prevent costly plantdowntime. Both of these strategies will be described in more detailbelow in connection with FIG. 30.

Referring again to FIG. 3B, in step 78, the system displays optionalfeatures and additional products which are available for the seal modelrecommended or selected, and calculates recommendations based upon theprocess fluid characteristics and the API plans selected. FIG. 23 is arepresentation of an example screen displayed by the system.

Optional features are features that are internal to the seal. They arecomponents which are built into the construction of the seal to increasethe seal life. The price for these optional features is added to theprice of the seal. Depending upon the path through the program, thesystem either recommends these features or allows the user to selectfeatures in area 530 and 534 of FIG. 23. The user may override anyselections recommended by the system. An example of some of the optionalfeatures which may be provided are the following.

Quench and drains may be recommended based upon the selection of the APIPlan 62 or 96, etc. Pumping features are recommended based upon theselection of API Plans 52 or 53, etc. Two piece stationary heads arerecommended based upon the manufacturer's classification entered intothe process fluid viscosity field (FIG. 18) or by the user entering aviscosity value greater than 2501 SSU for the fluid being used, etc.Gland features such as ID Pilot glands, OD Pilot glands and O-RingGroove glands also may selected directly in this area.

Additional products are used in connection with the seal to provide thebest sealing performance of the process fluid. These products areexternal to the seal and are listed as separate line items on the quoteform. These items may be purchased separate from the seal.

Depending upon the path through the program, the system either mayrecommend these products or may allow the user to select products inarea 533 of FIG. 23. The user has the ability to override any selectionsrecommended by the system. Examples of some of the additional productsthat may be provided are the following.

Throat bushings may be recommended by the system based upon theselection of API plans 32 or 99. For example, the system may recommendthe use of either a carbon or bronze throat bushing. The system firstchecks the material compatibility for carbon. If the rating for carbonis unacceptable, the system checks to determine if a bronze bushing isacceptable, or allows the user to select any material. Specialrecommendations are made for double seals. Based upon the combination ofthe double seal and the API plan selected, the system recommends acooling system for the application. If the convection tank coolingsystem can be used, the system recommends the size of the tank andcooling coils for the most efficient use. If the system determines theprocess cannot be cooled by the use of a convection tank, or if the userdoes not want to use a convection tank, then an alternate API plan isrecommended along with a flow meter which handles the fluid used forcooling the process in the seal chamber. The system also may recommendthe flow rate for providing the maximum cooling effect in the sealchamber with the minimum amount of water/barrier fluid used for anapplication.

Seal spare parts kits and factory repairs also may be quoted, enablingthe user to predetermine the cost of the repairs and rebuilding the sealbeing purchased. The user may select the kits at this time. A repair kitmay be selected without the purchase of the actual seal. The user mayselect these items in area 532 of FIG. 23.

Having now described in detail how the user obtains dimensions andgraphics of a seal, a profile of a selected seal, a pump profile andcompatibility results, the design center (28 in FIG. 2) will now bedescribed. As shown in step 79 of FIG. 3B, the design center designsseal components and auxiliary products. FIG. 24 is a flow diagramexplaining the functions of the design center. The design centercreates, draws and calculates dimensions for components (standard and/orspecial) and auxiliary products for an application. In step 549, it isdetermined if the item to be designed is a seal component or anauxiliary product. If the item is a seal component, processing continueswith step 550. If the item is an auxiliary product, processing continueswith step 563.

In step 550, the results of the compatibility analyzer are used todetermine if the component to be designed is standard or is customdesigned. For example, standard components have gland type 1 with nospecial gland features (see FIG. 11, area 212), sleeve type 1 (FIG. 11,area 213), and standard components (lock collars, holders, etc.). Ifcomponents are standard, processing continues with step 566. If a customcomponent is needed, processing continues with step 551.

In step 566, standard dimensions for each component are taken from thedimensional profile of the seal, and are stored in the seal styles file.An example is shown in FIG. 29 which depicts a limited representation ofa sleeve profile for one common seal type. Other seal component profilesare stored in a similar manner and contain additional fields for thedimensions pertinent to that component. Example components are glands,sleeves, lock collars, faces and holders. In step 567, the graphicdrawings for the component are selected from the seal styles file. FIG.25 is an example of a chart where graphics are stored for retrieval.This form is representative in nature and only shows a small portion ofthe graphics stored. The fields may be different for different sealmodels. The system stores one or more graphics for each seal componentset up in a template form which enables each graphic to handle a largenumber of different size seals with the dimensions being retrieved orcalculated and dropped into the predetermined field on the drawings.

Each drawing type is called out by using a letter designation. Forexample: “A” drawings are gland drawings stored and used in both theproposal generator (e.g., for quote form, bill of materials anddimensional verification form) and the manufacturing center (e.g., formanufacturing prints and scheduling prints). “C” drawings are completeseal cutaway drawings with dimensional lines and o-ring numbers of aseal used in both the proposal generator (e.g., quote form, brochure andinstallation instructions) and the manufacturing center. “D” drawingsare complete seal cutaway drawings with no dimensional lines used onlyin the proposal generator (e.g., brochures). “F” drawings are completecutaway drawings with dimensional lines and component part numbers usedin the proposal generator, (e.g., for bills of materials).

Each letter designation is then divided into different categories, suchas standard, standard bar stock and special designs, to accommodatedifferent design variations when the component is produced fromdifferent material types.

In one embodiment, in order for the system to determine which drawingshould be displayed, a chart may be input into the seal dimensional filewhich indicates which graphic pertains to the correct seal model/sizecombination for each category. FIG. 25 is an example of one such chart.

For standard components, the system first determines which material forthe seal was selected or recommended by the seal specifier anddetermines if the standard or standard bar stock graphics should beused. In this example, standard castings are in stainless steel andalloy 20 and thus the standard graphics are taken from area 590 of FIG.25. If the seal selected uses a different metal, the component is madefrom bar stock and the standard bar stock drawings are used, asindicated in section 591 of FIG. 25.

In step 568, the results of steps 566 and 567 are combined to create astandard engineering print for each component with dimensions. Theseprints are used for engineering review before parts are manufactured inthe manufacturing center. The manufacturing prints then areelectronically stored.

In step 569, the component drawings created for the seal are combined.The complete seal drawings (from FIG. 25 area 590 or 591 depending uponthe materials) are taken with and without dimensions to be used by eachof the output forms.

In step 570, the component drawings created are combined to producemanufacturing prints for each stage of the manufacturing process showingdifferent views of each component which are viewed by a machinist toproduce the part. These graphics are stored and retrieved in a similarfashion to those graphics discussed previously in FIG. 25.

If the components to be designed are not standard, as determined in step550, processing continues with step 551. For this example, componentsare classified as glands, sleeves and other components, etc. In step551, it is determined which components are to be designed. If in step551, it is determined that a gland is to be designed, processingcontinues with step 552.

In step 552, it is determined what type of stock is needed tomanufacture the special gland. Special glands may be manufactured fromat least three types of stock. The first type is a gland made bymodifying a finished casted gland. This type uses a finished gland frominventory and modifies it slightly. This gland is created when thecompatibility analyzer has recommended a gland type 12 with no specialgland features. (See FIG. 11, 212).

The second type of gland is made from a standard raw casting. This typeuses the same raw casting as a standard gland, but inserts the specialgland features if selected by the user in FIG. 10 area 183, or FIG. 23area 534. This gland type is used when the compatibility analyzer hasrecommended a gland type 1 or 12 (See FIG. 11, 212) and the user hasselected one or more of the special gland features.

The third type of stock is a casted blank or bar stock. This type ofgland is created from scratch. Each step and dimension is custom to theapplication. This gland is created when the compatibility analyzerrecommended a gland type other than 1 or 12, or when a special designgland is to be used. An example gland is a gland with scallop. Scallopsreduce the thickness of the seal gland in the area of the gland boltslots or holes to accommodate short bolt/stud extension lengths andshort distance to first obstruction from the face of the pump stuffingbox.

The design center creates a worksheet to compile the data used tocalculate the dimensions for a modified/special custom seal. An exampleof one such worksheet is shown in FIG. 26. FIG. 26 contains the resultsof the compatibility analyzer in area 600, the reason for themodification in area 601, the dimensions affected in area 602, thestandard dimensions in area 603 and the modified dimensions in area 604.Area 606 displays the gland type and area 607 displays the sleeve type.Area 605 shows design problems. Areas 610 displays verification notesdetermined from the compatibility analyzer. Area 611 shows “N”modification notes determined by the compatibility analyzer. Areas 608and 609 display notes generated by the compatibility analyzer.

If in step 552, it is determined that the gland should be made frommodifying a finished gland, processing continues with step 554. In step554, the system refers to the worksheet (FIG. 26) to determine which ofthe dimensions are to be modified. An example of some of themodifications which may be made to the standard gland follows. Thisexample is only representative in nature and variations may occur basedupon the seal model selected/recommended.

If slot 505C in FIG. 26 has a value in column 600, the system calculatesthe three dimensions affected. The L1 and L3 dimensions use the standardL1 and L3 dimension from FIG. 12 area 254 and 263, and adds the negativevalue of the 505C. The negative value is subtracted from the standard L2dimension (FIG. 12, area 253). If slot 508C has a value in column 600,the “S” dimension is replaced with the “S” dimension from the chart inFIG. 27, area 624 which corresponds with the bolting size of the pump.

If slot 509C has a value in column 600, the Special Slot ID graphicappears. The Slot ID dimension is calculated as follows:

bolt circle−(bolting size+slot clearance), where the bolt circle andbolting size dimensions are from FIG. 10, areas 191 and 189, and theslot clearance, is from FIG. 27, area 625.

If slot 511C has a value in column 600, the scallop shroud graphicappears and the following calculations are made:

bolt circle−(hex nut head shroud clearance+0.010)=special shroud ID

The bolt circle dimension is from FIG. 10, area 191 and the hex nut headshroud clearance dimension is from FIG. 27, area 623.

If the difference between the special shroud ID and the outside internalobstruction (from FIG. 12, area 279) is greater than zero, a heavy hexnut and the special shroud ID value are used. If this difference is lessthan zero, then the ID of the shroud hex nut is:

Bolt Circle−(Hex Nut Maximum Width Across Corners+0.010).

The Bolt Circle dimension is from FIG. 10, area 191, and the hex nutmaximum width across corners is from FIG. 27, area 620.

If the difference between the ID of the shroud hex nut and the outsideinternal obstruction (from FIG. 12, area 279) is greater than zero, ahex nut and the ID Shroud Hex Nut value are used. If this difference isless than zero, the ID of the shroud cap screw is: bolt circle−(capscrew head diameter+0.010), where the bolt circle is from FIG. 10, area191 and the cap screw head diameter is from FIG. 27, area 622.

If the difference between the ID of the shroud cap screw and the outsideinternal obstruction (from FIG. 12, area 279) is greater than zero, asocket head cap screw and the ID of the shroud cap screw value are used.If this difference is less than zero, then “*” and the negative valuefrom the ID Shroud Cap Screw are printed.

If slot 516C has a value in column 600, the modified D3 dimension iscalculated as follows: [Gland OD+(516C value−0.250)], where the Gland ODvalue is taken from FIG. 12, area 260.

After computing these changes, processing then continues with step 555where the system pulls detail drawings, and processing continues withstep 556.

In step 556, the special gland design print with dimensions is created,using the standard “A” graphics (from FIG. 25 area 590 and 591,depending upon the material). In step 569 the standard component drawingand the detail drawings as determined from the above calculations (step554) are combined, and also the complete seal drawings with the detaildrawings (from FIG. 25 area 590 or 591 depending upon the materials)with and without dimensions, are pulled to be used by the output formsare retrieved.

In step 570, the component drawings created and the detail drawings arecombined to produce manufacturing prints for each stage of themanufacturing process showing different views of each component whichare viewed by a machinist to produce the part.

If, in step 552, it is determined that a casted blank or bar stock isused, processing continues with step 553. In step 553, the dimensionsfor a special gland are calculated. Below is one example of a popularspecial gland which may be created using this method. Variations may bemade to this process to accommodate any special gland designs.

For this example, a Gland 9 made from bar stock or a blank casting isdesigned. Each dimension is calculated because the piece is beingcreated from scratch. Each dimension is calculated individually basedupon the pump/process combination to ensure the seal is a direct fit forthe application. Dimensions are calculated as follows:

D3 dimension: bolt circles+hex head shroud clearance=D3, where the boltcircle value is from FIG. 10, area 191 and the hex head shroud clearancevalue is from FIG. 27, area 623.

Slot ID Value: bolt circles−(bolting size+slot clearance)=Slot ID, wherethe bolt circles value is from FIG. 10, area 191, the bolting size valueis from FIG. 10, area 189, and the slot clearance value is from FIG. 27,area 625.

The Counterbore Gasket OD Dimension is computed according to the “N” IDPilot value. If “N” ID Pilot has a value, ID Pilot+GasketSurface=Counterbore Gasket OD, where the ID Pilot value is from FIG. 10,area 196 and the Gasket Surface value is from FIG. 27, area 626. If “N”ID Pilot is blank or N/A, then “C” Box Bore+Gasket Surface=CounterboreGasket OD, where the Box Bore value is from FIG. 10, area 184 and theGasket Surface value is from FIG. 27, area 626.

The Counterbore Gasket OD dimension is then checked by computing: SlotID—(Actual Gasket OD—0.050), where the Slot ID value is from FIG. 12,area 272, and the Actual Gasket OD value is from FIG. 12, area 274. Ifthis result is positive, the counterbore gasket OD dimension calculatedabove is used. If this result is negative, the Slot ID becomes theCounterbore Gasket OD—Then the following computation is performed:

Actual Slot ID—(ID Pilot if has a value, or Bore if ID Pilot was N/A orblank)/2, where the Actual Slot ID value is from FIG. 12, area 272, theID Pilot value is from FIG. 10, area 196, and the Box Bore value is fromFIG. 10, area 184. For seal sizes 1.000-2.500,″ if the result is lessthan 0.105, the Counterbore Gasket OD is replaced with “*,” the resultof this calculation and Gask/Side. For seal sizes 1.000-2.500″, if theresult is greater than or equal to 0.105, the Actual Slot ID Value isused. For seal sizes 2.501-5.000″, if the result is less than 0.170, theCounterbore Gasket OD is replaced with “*,” the result of thiscalculation and Gask/Side. For seal sizes 2.501-5.000″, if the result isgreater than or equal to 0.170, the Actual Slot ID Value is used.

The Slot/Hole Width, “S” Dimension is obtained from FIG. 27, area 624.

The L1, L2, and L3 dimensions are determined in the following manner:

If slot 505C has value in column 600 of FIG. 26, these dimensions arecalculated as follows:

L1 dimension=Outside Length (from FIG. 12 area 254)+Special505C;

L2 dimension=Inside Length (from FIG. 12 area 253)−Special505C; and

L3 dimension=Bar Gland Length (from FIG. 12 area 261)+Special505C.

If slot 505C does not have a value in column 600, the standard L1dimension from FIG. 12, area 254 and the standard L2 dimension from FIG.12, area 253 are used, and the Bar Gland Length dimension from FIG. 12,area 264 is used for the L3 dimension.

The Modified Shroud Value is computed from:

(bolt circles−hex nut head maximum width across corners)—bar shroud OD,where the bolt circles value is from FIG. 10, area 191, the hex nut headmaximum width across corners value is from FIG. 27, area 620, and thebar shroud OD value is from FIG. 12, area 276. If this result ispositive, no graphic is needed. If this result is negative, the ScallopShroud Graphic is displayed and the following calculations areperformed:

bolt circle—(hex nut head shroud clearance+0.010)=ID Shroud, where thebolt circle value is from FIG. 10, area 191, and the hex nut head shroudclearance value is from FIG. 27, area 623.

The difference between ID Shroud and the outside internal obstruction(from FIG. 12, area 279) is calculated. If this difference is greaterthan zero, then print “Heavy Hex Nut” and the ID Shroud value.Otherwise, if the result is less than zero, then:

bolt circle—(hex nut width across corners+0.010)=ID Shroud Hex Nut,where the bolt circle value is from FIG. 10, area 191, and the hex nutwidth across corners value is from FIG. 27, area 620. The differencebetween the ID Shroud Hex Nut and the Outside Internal Obstruction (fromFIG. 12, area 279) is then calculated. If the result is greater thanzero, then print “Hex Nut” and the ID Shroud Hex Nut value. Otherwise,if the result is less than zero, then:

Bolt Circle—(Cap Screw Head Diameter+0.010)=ID Shroud Cap Screw, wherethe Bolt Circle value is from FIG. 10, area 191, and the Cap Screw HeadDiameter value is from FIG. 27, area 622.

The difference between the ID Shroud Cap Screw and the Outside InternalObstruction (from FIG. 12, area 279) is then calculated. If thisdifference is greater than zero, then print “Socket Head Cap Screw” andthe ID Shroud Cap Screw value. Otherwise, if the result is less thanzero, then print “*” and the negative value from the ID Shroud CapScrew.

The D3 Dimension is then checked. If slot 516C has a value in column 600of FIG. 26, the new “D3” Gland OD calculated above is compared to theMaximum Gland OD from FIG. 10, area 195. If the new “D3 ” Gland OD islarger, the D3 dimension is replaced with an asterisk and the negativevalue.

If slot 504C has a value in column 600 of FIG. 26, then the followingchanges to the standard L1, L2, and L3 dimensions are made:

L1 dimension Outside Length (from FIG. 12 area 254)−Special504C;

L2 dimension=Inside Length (from FIG. 12 area 253)+Special504C; and L3dimension=Bar Gland Length (from FIG. 12 area 264)−Special504C.

The D2 Dimension has a minimum value taken from a standard chart for themodel/size combination. The maximum value may remain blank. Minimumbolting information may remain blank.

After the dimensions are calculated, processing continues with step 555in FIG. 24. In step 555, the bar stock drawings are retrieved asindicated from FIG. 25. Based on the gland type recommended by thecompatibility analysis or selected by the user, the “A” gland graphic istaken from either area 591 or 592 of FIG. 25. If the gland type is 9,the “A” gland graphics is taken from area 591. If any other gland typeis present the “A” gland graphics takes the corresponding gland numbergraphic from area 592. Special details drawings may be shown based onthe calculations in step 553.

In step 556, the dimensions calculated in step 553 and the drawings fromstep 555 may be combined into a special gland design print to be usedfor engineering checks before parts are manufactured in themanufacturing center. The component manufacturing prints then may beelectronically stored.

In step 569, the casted blank or bar stock gland drawings and thespecial detail drawings as determined from the above calculations (step555) are combined. The seal drawings with the special detail drawingsare taken from FIG. 25 area 591 drawings “C,” “D,” and “F,” if the glandtype recommended or selected was gland type 9 or area 592 drawings“Special C,” “Special D,” and “Special F” if any other special glandtype was recommended by the compatibility analyzer or selected by theuser. The drawings may be with and without dimensions to be used by eachof the various output forms discussed above.

In step 570 each component drawing created and the special detaildrawings are combined to produce manufacturing prints for each stage ofthe manufacturing process showing different views of each componentwhich are viewed by a machinist to produce the part. An example of amanufacturing print is shown in FIG. 28.

If in step 552, it is determined that a raw gland casting is to be used,processing continues with step 571. In step 571, the dimensions for theselected special gland features are calculated. The balance of thedimensions are taken from the standard dimensional charts for a standardseal. Processing then continues with step 555, where the standard glanddrawings are selected, in the same manner as in step 567. In step 556, adesign print is created using the dimensions calculated and the graphicsselected for engineering review before parts are manufactured in themanufacturing center. The component manufacturing prints are thenelectronically stored. Steps 569 and 570 are performed in the samemanner as described above.

If the result of step 551 is the manufacturing of a special sleevedesign, processing continues with step 557. In step 557, each dimensionfor the sleeve is calculated individually based upon the pump dimensionsto ensure an exact fit for the application. Various special sleevedesigns may be accommodated. For example, a straight sleeve withnon-standard ID, hook sleeve, step sleeve, sleeve extensions, specialsleeve designs, special ID sleeves, sleeves with extra drive set screws,may be accommodated. The standard sleeve dimensions are stored as partof the seal dimensional profile in the seal styles file.

An example of some of the sleeve dimensions used in one of the morepopular sleeve types is found in FIG. 29. Other dimensions not shownalso may be included in the seal dimensional profile and are used forother sleeve types. In FIG. 29, the sleeve large OD is in area 630.Sleeve #1o-ring OD is in area 631. Sleeve ID is in area 632. SleeveRotary Head Step 1D is in area 634. Sleeve smaller OD is in area 633.Sleeve #2o-ring OD is in area 635. Sleeve snap ring OD is in area 636.Sleeve pumping feature OD is in area 637. Sleeve pumping feature undercut is in area 638.

If the compatibility analyzer has recommended a sleeve type 2 (FIG. 11area 213) the following steps are performed. Sleeve type 2 is a popularsleeve type created when a nonstandard shaft or sleeve size is used. Forthis sleeve type, two dimensions are calculated to accommodate thespecial shaft sleeve size, which are calculated as follows.

Dimension 1: If the shaft/sleeve size is less than 2.250, take theshaft/sleeve size +0.002. If the shaft/sleeve size is greater than orequal to 2.250, take the shaft/sleeve size+0.003.

Dimension 2 is calculated by subtracting the seal size from dimension 1and then adding the sleeve #1o-ring OD (from FIG. 29, area 631).

If the compatibility analyzer has recommended a sleeve type 3 or 4 (FIG.11 area 213) or if the user has selected a type 3 or 4, the designcenter calculates the dimensions as follows. Sleeve types 3 and 4 aresimilar to sleeve type 2. They use the two dimensions calculated fromsleeve type 2, and a third dimension calculated.

Dimension 3: If the shaft/sleeve size is less than 2.250, take the shaftseal size+0.002. If the shaft/sleeve size is greater than or equal to2.250, take the shaft seal size+0.003.

Other sleeve types may be calculated in a similar manner.

With the dimensions calculated, processing continues with step 558. Instep 558, the sleeve drawings stored in the seal styles file areselected in the same manner as the gland drawings.

In step 559, the dimensions obtained from step 557 and the drawingsselected from step 558 are combined to create a sleeve design print forengineering review before parts are manufactured in the manufacturingcenter. Component manufacturing prints are electronically stored. Steps569 and 570 are performed in the same manner discussed above.

If the result of step 551 is to manufacture special components, such as,stationary face holders, faces, lock collars and adapter plates used inor with a mechanical seal processing continues with step 560. In step560, dimensions are calculated in a manner similar to steps 553 and 554for glands, and step 557 for sleeves. In step 561 graphics are selectedin the same manner as in steps 558 (for sleeves) and 555 (for glands).In step 562 special components design prints with dimensions are createdfor engineer review before parts are manufactured in the manufacturingcenter. The component manufacturing prints are then electronicallystored. Steps 569 and 570 are performed in the same manner as discussedabove.

An example of a seal component that may be designed by the design centeris a special seal face design.

Some applications in industries such as petroleum refining,petrochemical and power generation, use a special seal face balance toaccommodate factors of low specific gravity, high vapor pressure andhigher pressure/velocity conditions. The system may calculate seal facebalance geometry and designs special seal faces (with and withoutholders) to accommodate the application.

If in step 549 it is determined that an auxiliary product is to bedesigned, processing continues with step 563. In step 563, the systemcalculates dimensions for the auxiliary product, and in step 564 thesystem selects an appropriate graphic. In step 565 two design prints arecreated: one for internal use, showing customer information, pump andseal information, and the other for external use, for sending to anoutside vendor for manufacture if the auxiliary product is notmanufactured internally. This print may have only the graphic withdimensions, removing information a manufacturer would not want toprovide to a third party. An example of each print is shown found inFIGS. 31 and 32. FIG. 31 represents the internal design print. FIG. 32represents the external design print.

If a throat bushing (solid or split design) was recommended or selectedby the user, the design center automatically calculates the dimensions,and draws the bushing manufacturing print so that this custom piece canbe manufactured without the aid of an engineering/design department.Bushing types (with different shaft clearances) may be provided toaccommodate operating conditions and flow requirements. The following isone example of a throat bushing that can be designed in the designcenter. The bushing length, o-ring groove, OD clearance and ID clearanceare predetermined based on the seal size of the seal. Dimensionalinformation stored in the pump data file also may be retrieved toprovide engineered designs on an application by application basis. Forexample, a seal with a size of less than 2.125 has a length of 0.427, ano-ring groove of 0.156, OD clearance of 0.010, and an ID clearance of0.012. The actual manufacturing dimensions may be calculated as follows:

Dimension A=(Length−O-ring groove)/2+o-ring groove

Dimension B=Seal size+ID clearance

Dimension C=Bore of Pump−OD clearance

Dimension D=Bore−0.226.

Steps 569 and 570 are performed in the same manner as discussed above.

A special part number may be created for each of the modified/custom(non-standard) component and auxiliary product. The part number iscreated to refer back to the pump it fits. An example of a part numberfollows. The first three digits reflect the component or auxiliary type.For example, 100=glands, 400=sleeves, and 160=throat bushings. The nextfour digits are the seal model number. For example, 3000, 3001, 3200,3220. The next four digits select the pump record number. The last digitis a letter code reflecting the material needed. For example, a glandcreated to fit pump #1594 in alloy 20 for a seal model 3220 would haveas its part number: 10032201594A. The part numbering system of thedesign center accommodates all items (standard, specials, etc.) and isfully integrated into the system to provide seamless computerizedinterface between the seal specifier, compatibility analyzer, designcenter, manufacturing center, proposal generator, purchasing, and orderentry/processing.

The design center outputs a quote proposal, as indicated in step 80 ofFIG. 3B, in response to the seal selection process defined above. Thequote proposal may be generated in several different forms, dependingupon the use. In general, the quote proposal includes information forthe user and the customer providing a complete sealing solution. Each ofFIGS. 30A and 30B is a view of a portion of an example standard proposalautomatically generated by the system. Each of the blocks shown isdiscussed in detail below.

The quote identification number is a unique number assignedautomatically for each quote generated. This quote number acts as anelectronic retrieval reference number for all quotes, creating ahistorical file. The customer's contact information, such as the name,address, phone number and fax number, may be displayed using theinformation stored in the customer information file. The distributor ormanufacturer's logo stored in the customer information file may bedisplayed providing customized output forms for themanufacturer/resaler. The distributor or manufacturer's contactinformation, such as the name, address, phone and fax numbers, also maybe displayed.

The equipment specification section displays pump information based onthe pump model selected by the user. The operating specificationssection displays the primary process fluid, and any secondary or otherprocess fluid, selected by the user along with the operating conditionsprovided by the user. The seal information section provides the partnumber of the seal selected or recommended along with a description andgland features of the seal. The seal construction section provides thematerials of construction for the mechanical seal recommended orselected.

The seal dimensional information section includes dimensionalinformation for a seal in a template graphic system. Depending upon themodification strategy selected by the user, the system may display theseal graphics with dimensions. If a standard seal was recommended, orthe user selected to modify the equipment, the standard drawings withdimensions supplied by the design center may be displayed. If a modifiedseal was recommended, the system may display modified or custom sealdrawings including detail drawings with dimensions.

The engineering specifications section includes notes generated by thecompatibility analysis, such as shown in FIG. 11, areas 214 and 215,depending upon the modification strategy and seal typeselected/recommended for the pump selected, such as modifications toequipment and verification notes.

The environmental controls section shows the graphic of the API plansand Heating and Cooling plan stored in the process fluid file asselected by the user or recommended by the system as shown in FIG. 18,areas 480-486.

The process fluid section displays notes associated with the processfluid selected, stored in the process fluid file (FIG. 18, area 495)which provide the user with valuable process fluid information.

The additional information section provides the user with warnings, suchas when temperature, concentration, viscosity, shaft speed, boxpressure, etc., are not entered by the user or if the system determinesthe value entered has exceeded the established limits for the seal orthe materials of construction selected or recommended by the system.Such limitations are stored in the seal styles file for each seal model.The system also may analyze the pressure/velocity by comparing boxpressure, seal size and shaft speed to determine if thepressure/velocity is acceptable for the application. If the user did notprovide a box pressure, the system automatically calculates it basedupon the suction and discharge pressure provided.

This system also may provide the customer with an alternate seal whenthe limitations of the seal or materials originally selected orrecommended have been exceeded. The user also may be instructed by thesystem to consult the factory for more information before ordering theseal that was recommended, when an application cannot be handled by theseal styles offered by a given manufacturer.

The order information section provides pricing information formechanical seals, optional features included in the seal and additionalproducts with part numbers, description and list pricing including anyapplicable discounts obtained from the customer database. The user alsomay change the quantity of each item. The reference number also providesa link to the pump data file for identification of the pump/equipmentbeing used. A database version number and seal version number also maybe placed on the quote form for tracking.

The user now has information for quotation, enabling the factory to useelectronic order processing. Another output form may be used to enablethe user to obtain a quote proposal with the information listed abovewith the exception of pricing information. The proposal may be useful,for example, for maintenance and engineering files to supply the userwith valuable information without providing pricing information whichmay become outdated.

A bill of materials and engineering drawings may be printed out ordisplayed, as shown in FIG. 33. The bill of materials is a definition ofdetails for the application. This sheet includes information on thepump, process fluid, operating conditions, the seal selected, itsmaterials of constructions, and detailed drawings, etc. There are twoversions of the bill of materials. The first version may be, forexample, for resalers and end users. This version provides informationregarding the seal, the pump, and the operating conditions, but does notcontain pump dimensions. The second version contains information fromthe first version and the pump dimensions. This version may be used forinternal purposes, for example.

The bill of materials sheet is divided into areas, each of which detailsone aspect of the application. The upper left hand corner of the pageincludes a listing of the materials of construction for the seal. Thislisting provides any customer with the identification of each componentpart by description, material and part numbers, for verification of thematerials of the seal as ordered to prevent misapplication of the sealand for future reordering.

A front view of the gland and a bolting information chart is included toprovide a customer with dimensions for fitting the seal gland to thepump bolting. This view assists the user to prevent misinstallation ofthe seal and to show features, such as flush ports, quench and drain,etc., for proper piping and installation.

A side view of the seal provides an actual representation of the sealconstruction with the dimensions which verify the seal fits theequipment and clearly identifies each part by a number which is shown inthe materials of construction chart to verify proper materials ofconstruction. Special details shown in the right hand column, such asshaft/sleeve extensions, pilot details, slot ID details, modified shrouddetail, etc., provide a clear illustration of each detail withdimensions to verify the seal fits the equipment. Equipmentmodifications, notes and equipment verifications advise the customerabout the equipment to ensure proper adaptability of the seal.

Additional notes may be provided to advise the customer of anyapplication related factors that were not considered in the sealselection, recommendation and quotation construction process to ensureoptimum seal performance life. The customer information section displaysinformation such as the customer name, address, phone and fax numbers toverify correctness of the customer's identification.

The operating conditions section displays the process fluid and factorsused in the selection/recommendation and quotation process forverification purposes to prevent misapplication of the seal. Thechemical characteristic section provides the customer with informationrelated to safety and to maintain system conditions which achievemaximum seal performance life. The environmental control sectionprovides recommendations for piping plan systems which control theenvironment the seal is exposed to resulting in maximized sealperformance life.

The seal information section provides the customer with a quotationnumber and complete seal part coding with special component partidentification for future reordering or for verification of originaldata provided to construct the original quotation and for the customer'srecords. The equipment information section provides identification ofthe equipment by manufacturer, model, frame/group with bore type,equipment type and the customer's equipment tag, which verify thecorrectness of the equipment used to select the seal and for thecustomer's records. When double seals are used, the barrier fluid isidentified for the customer to verify and ensure proper operation of theseal system.

A legend section may be used to display a manufacturer's logo, andcontact information such as phone, fax and e-mail numbers.

As another option, an order form may be printed, as shown in FIG. 34.The order form of FIG. 34 is automatically generated by the sealselection system allowing a user to order the seal directly from themanufacturer. This form contains information used by a purchasingdepartment to process an order. This form may be faxed, orelectronically transmitted directly to the manufacturer or distributorfor electronic ordering processing. Graphics, dimensions, notes orwarnings may be eliminated from this form. The bill to informationsection of the quote form displays the specific customer location,address and quotation number for an invoice procedure and expediting theinvoice payments. The ship to section displays the customerlocation/address to ensure proper delivery and receipt of the seal toprevent costly delays. The body of the quotation displays the purchaseorder number and shipping method to ensure proper order processing,invoicing and delivery of the seal. The items quoted are displayed withthe quantities, part numbers and descriptions with pricing and deliverytime frame. Other seal features and construction details providedescription of special features and materials of major parts to clarifythe seal part code. The distributor information may include address,other contact information and a logo.

A dimension verification form, as shown in FIG. 35, may be used toverify pump dimensions and to confirm that a pump has not beenpreviously modified. The user also may use this form to confirm that aseal fits in the pump/equipment. For special seal designs, etc., theform acts as an approval form where the user may be asked to sign theform to confirm that the information on the form is correct, and thatthe user agrees the seal fits the equipment profiled and approves theseal design for order entry/processing. Another use of this form is thatit allows the manufacturer to update new equipment profiles into thepump database as it contains equipment profile information.

This form may be used to educate field personnel enabling anyone toobtain and analyze dimensions from the pump/equipment and verify theseal fits the pump. The user then may visually check the pump dimensionsto confirm the seal fits, for example, by using special help screens. Ifthe user changes or adds a dimension, the compatibility analyzer may bere-executed and an updated accurate quote based on the new informationmay be generated. The dimension verification form may instruct the userto complete the verification and allows an electronic transmittal to amanufacturer along with the Order Form when an order is placed, ensuringthat no errors result, and eliminating the need for dialogue. As withthe bill of materials, there may be two versions of this form. Oneversion may have equipment dimensions, for example for the OEM users andfor internal purposes. The other version may be without equipmentdimensions, for example, for use by resellers and end-users when themanufacturer does not wish to disclose proprietary dimensionalinformation. On both versions, the user may be asked depending upon theequipment profile to confirm the equipment dimensions by measuring theequipment, inserting the dimensions on the worksheet and verifying thatthe seal fits the equipment. When dimensions are questionable or missingin the pump database, the system user may be asked to verify or obtainthe dimensions, by inserting the word “verify” under each dimensionwhich is not stored in the equipment profile. This information isactivated by using the verification notes generated by the compatibilityanalyzer and stored in FIG. 11 area 214 and 215.

The user also may be asked to verify dimensions based on the dimensiontype selected in FIG. 11 area 230. If type A was selected by the system,no verification was needed. If type B was selected by the system, theone dimension may be verified for example by using help screens. If typeC or D was selected, dimensions are verified and supplied to themanufacturer. This process enables the equipment information stored inthe pump data file to be updated.

The dimensional verification form is divided into sections. Each sectioncontains specific information relating to each area of the application.

The quote information section displays the quotation number and dateconstructed. The seal part code and selected/recommended features areshown with style numbers along with the gland and sleeve typeselected/recommended. The customer information section displays customername, location, address with contact numbers. The resaler informationsection displays the resaler name, location/address with contactnumbers. The equipment details section displays the equipmentidentification by manufacturer, model, frame/group, bore type, sleevetype and pump sizes.

The operating conditions section provides process fluid identificationand characteristics, such as temperature, specific gravity, viscosity,concentration, percentage of solids, etc., and other operatingconditions related to the equipment design, such as shaft speed, boxpressure, suction pressure, and discharge pressure.

The equipment information section provides clarification of possibleequipment modification for the proper design of the seal and a methodused to obtain the equipment dimensions.

The equipment drawing provides a cross-sectional view with dimensionallines for positive visual identification of dimensions for designengineering of any seal model and corresponds to the analysis sectionfor equipment dimensions. The seal drawing section provides a crosssectional view with dimensional lines and dimension designations, whichcorresponds to each dimension in the seal dimension section. The specialdetails section displays special design details with dimensions, whichcorresponds to the equipment dimensions provided on the dimensionalverification form.

The second set of seal drawings displays the front view of the glanddesign and any features with dimensions to verify that the seal fits theequipment per the dimensions shown in the equipment dimension section.The second equipment drawing section provides a front view of theequipment with an orientation to the equipment bolting pattern. Thebolting section displays the minimum bolt circle by stud/bolt size andslot width which allows the user to analyze the adaptability to theexisting bolting dimensions provided below.

The seal dimensions section displays the seal dimensions for the sealmodel selected and allows the user to make a visual/engineering analysisto the actual equipment dimensions. A series of help buttons/screens areaccessible enabling any user to identify, obtain and analyze the datausing scientific methodologies. The equipment dimensions sectiondisplays dimensions stored in the pump data file or input by the user inthe “Add a Pump” path for the equipment and indicates dimensions to beverified.

The graphics displayed on this form correspond directly to the sealmodel, gland type, sleeve type and equipment type based on the equipmentprofile and the results of the compatibility analyzer stored in the pumpdatabase file.

The Plant Standardization Survey, shown in FIG. 36, stores quoteinformation for a particular customer. This survey is compiled fromquotes generated for a specific customer. This information be sorted inmany ways, such as by quote number, seal part number, pump manufactureror equipment tag. This form tracks how many of what style seal are inuse at the customer's plant. It also allows the user to standardize thematerials of construction while allowing the consolidation of sealdesigns to be purchased. This form also may be used as a search engineby the user and the customer to retrieve any quote or output forms for aplant application.

The plant standardization survey displays columns of pertinent data suchas the customer name, quote identification number and pump systemidentification number, equipment tag or serial number, pump manufacturername, model and frame/group, pump size, bore type, shaft speed, sealmodel number, seal size, seal part code with special features, etc. Thisdata allows the user to verify the data involved with duplication of theexisting seal and equipment, which consolidates the number of sealmodels used in the plant. The user may sort this information by, forexample, pump manufacturer, quote number, seal part number, or equipmenttag number. This sorting capability provides for display for groupingsof the same pumps/equipment, or seals by part number providing thesystem user with the ability to optimize the use of standardized sealdesigns for identical pieces of equipment.

The user may print bills of materials, quotations and the survey formcurrently displayed. This capability provides output forms for physicalfile records or use by plant maintenance or engineering personnel forverification or new purchase order placement or when computer systemsare not available in that location. The system also allows the user toselect a new customer by selecting the “Select New Customer” icon. Thiscapability provides the manufacturer or resaler with the ability todisplay a new plant standardization form for any other customer in thesystem. A seal maintenance history survey also may be provided toanalyze seal life for a given application.

Having now described the various outputs of the design center, referringagain to FIG. 3B, in step 81, the order entry department exports thequote to an accounting package for processing. The quote details alsomay be sent to the manufacturing center (step 82) for production. Instep 82 of FIG. 3B the manufacturing center uses the graphics anddimensions created by the design center to manufacture the item.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart describing the process performed by themanufacturing center part of the system. In step 649, it is determinedwhether the components to be manufactured are part of the seal or ifthey are auxiliary products. If it is determined that seal componentsare to be manufactured, processing continues with step 650. In step 650,it is determined what type of seal component is to be manufactured. Ifit is determined that standard components are to manufactured,processing continues with step 651.

In step 651, manufacturing operations are retrieved from the seal stylesfile and are set in a sequential order in which the manufacturingdepartment schedules the work. For example, to produce a gland type 1for a given seal model, there are four “CNC” operations (referred to asOP's).

1st OP: First operation: Turning (on a CNC turning center/lathe)

2nd OP: Second operation: Turning (on a CNC turning center/lathe)

3rd OP: Third operation: Milling (on a CNC milling center)

4th OP: Fourth operation: Milling (on a CNC milling center)

The sequence of the manufacturing steps is predetermined for eachmodel/component and is stored in the system.

In step 652, manufacturing prints are created with dimensions retrievedfrom the design center. Each step is placed in sequential order on themanufacturing print to assist the machinist in producing the piece.

The prints may be segments or duplicates of the prints produced in thedesign center. For example, a drawing for a standard gland in the designcenter displays the gland in two distinct views, whereas in themanufacturing center shows six views tied to the manufacturingoperations performed at each step. If a sleeve is being made the sameview from the design center is displayed in the manufacturing center.Because of the simplicity of the drawing used in manufacturing a sleeve,there are only two turning operations and no CNC milling operations.

After the manufacturing prints have been created, in step 653 themanufacturing program numbers stored in the seal styles file areselected and listed on the prints adjacent each manufacturing operation.

Standard template CNC programs are stored in the seal styles file foreach step of the manufacturing process. The standard componentdimensions either are generated from the design center or are retrievedfrom the seal styles file and are inserted into the template CNC programwith program number assigned at each step of the manufacturing process.After the manufacturing programs have been selected and listed, in step654 the materials to be used are selected. If standard components arebeing made either casting, “tubing” or “bar stock,” are used.

If a standard gland or sleeve is being made the casting part number isstored in the seal styles file and is listed on the manufacturing print.If a standard component is to be manufactured from tubing, the ID, OD,and length of the tubing is listed in a file along with a part numberguiding the machinist to the material to be cut and sawed from astandard length. This information is also listed on the manufacturingprint.

Tool numbers, fixture numbers, setup information, and cycle times foreach program also are listed on the manufacturing prints. Thisinformation is stored in the seal styles files along with the programs.Digital photos of the machine tool pockets and fixture setups for theCNC machinery also are stored in this file. The machinist may use thesephotos as a visual reference to confirm tools and fixtures have beensetup properly.

All standard components may be made from either castings, raw bar,tubing stock or other materials. Information about these materials maybe stored in the seal styles database or in an inventory or otherdatabase. The system compares ID, OD and length of the part to bemanufactured to the castings first and to the then bar and tubingmaterials to determine if the material is in stock. If a match is notfound, a comparison between the part dimensions to be manufactured andinformation stored in a database about the various suppliers of standardraw materials tubing and bar stock dimensions may be performed to selectthe correct material and to generate a purchase order for the material,possibly without human intervention.

The manufacturing prints, complete with manufacturing program numbers,scheduling information, set up information and cycle times, may nowexported to the main computer (step 681), for retrieval by an automatedscheduling department.

In step 682, depending on the scheduling department priorities, thecomputer decides manufacturing priorities based on shipment dates, andorder dates, etc. Depending on the priority, the manufacturing printsare created and manufacturing programs are downloaded directly andautomatically to the CNC machinery for manufacturing (step 683).

If the result of step 650 was a modified standard gland, processingcontinues with step 655. In step 655, the information about themodification is taken from the design center and the manufacturing stepsare sequenced. In step 656, the manufacturing print showing only thedetails of the modifications is created. The CNC programs for eachmodification are selected in step 657 and the program number are listedon the print. In step 658, the finished casting is selected out ofinventory to be modified, stock is checked and a purchase order iscreated if necessary. In step 681, the CNC programs are exported to themain computer to be used in production. In step 682, the production isscheduled and in step 683 the program is downloaded to the CNC machineryfor production.

If in step 650, it is determined that a special gland is to bemanufactured, processing continues with step 659. In step 659, theoperations are determined and production steps are sequenced. In step660, the manufacturing prints are created using the graphics anddimensions created by the design center. In step 661, the material formanufacturing the gland is determined. If it is determined that a rawcasting may be used, processing continues with step 662. In step 662,the special gland CNC template program is selected. Each seal model hasa different template program stored in the seal styles file. Thedimensions calculated by the design center are inserted into theprogram. In step 663, the raw casting is selected, or if the raw castingis not in stock, the purchase order is placed. In step 681, the CNCprogram is exported to the main computer. In step 682, the piece isscheduled into production schedule, and in step 683 the program isdownloaded to the CNC machine for production.

If in step 661, it is determined that a casted blank is to be used,processing continues with step 684. In step 684, the template programsfor manufacturing process are selected and the dimensions from thedesign center are inserted into the templates. In step 685, the castedblank number to be used is selected, stock level is checked, and thepurchase order is created if necessary. Steps 681, 682 and 683 occur asdiscussed in the earlier path.

If in step 661, it is determined that bar stock or tubing is to be used,processing continues with step 664. In step 664, the template programsfor manufacturing are selected and the dimensions from the design centerare inserted into the templates.

In step 665, material to be used is selected, stock level is checked,and a purchase order may be created. Steps 681, 682 and 683 occur asdiscussed above.

If, in step 650, it is determined that a special sleeve is to bemanufactured, processing continues with step 666. In step 666, theoperations for manufacturing are determined and sequenced. In step 667,a manufacturing print is created using the graphics from the designcenter showing the steps of the manufacturing process. In step 668, itis determined if a casted sleeve may be used. If it is determined instep 668 that a casted sleeve may be used, processing continues withstep 669. In step 669, the template programs for manufacturing areselected and the dimensions from the design center are inserted into thetemplates. In step 670, the sleeve casting number is selected and apurchase order is created if stock levels are low. Processing continueswith steps 681, 682 and 683 in the same manner as discussed above forglands.

If, in step 668, it is determined that the sleeve is to be manufacturedfrom raw stock, processing continues with step 671. In step 671, thetemplate programs for manufacturing are selected and the dimensions fromthe design center are inserted into the templates. In step 672, thestock size is determined, inventory is checked and the materials may bepurchased. Steps 681-638 are performed as discussed above.

If, in step 650, it is determined that a special seal component orcomponent type seal part is to be manufactured, processing continueswith step 673. In step 673 the manufacturing operations are determinedand sequenced. In step 674, a manufacturing print is created using thegraphics created in the design center. In step 675, the templateprograms for manufacturing are selected and the dimensions calculated bythe design center are inserted into the templates. In step 676, thematerial is selected, stock is checked and purchase orders may becreated. Steps 681, 682, and 683 are performed as discussed above.

If, in step 649, it is determined that an auxiliary product is to bemanufactured, processing continues with step 677. In step 677, theoperations are determined and sequenced. In step 678, the manufacturingprints are created using the graphics from the design center. In step679, the template programs for each operation are selected and theseprogram numbers are inserted on the manufacturing prints. In step 680,the materials are selected, stock is checked and the purchase order iscreated if necessary. In steps 681-683 are performed in the same manneras in the other paths.

This system also may be provided with promotion/advertising and postsales and service features. For example, the system user may bepresented with the features of cartridge design seals and componentseals and comparisons of the two types of seals. The system may presentfeatures of spring loaded stationary cartridge seals with comparativeinformation about rotary and stationary metal bellows designs.

The system may present graphic presentations of single and double springloaded stationary cartridge seals with features, benefits and designprinciples graphically explained. The system may present graphics ofsingle and double cartridge seals with visible leakage points,conditions, causes and corrective actions for trouble shooting sealswhile installed on the equipment. Also, graphics of seal parts may bedisplayed with part conditions identified and failure analysis providedwith causes of failure and corrective actions given for parts upondisassembly of the seal. The system may present policies and proceduresfor returning seals to a factory for exchange for other seals or repairat the factory. Forms include information about returning seals forrepair and failure analysis that complied with regulatory agencyrequirements. The system user may present installation instructions forany seal model complete with piping diagrams for the seal features. Thesystem may present application data forms to be sent to the factory whenthe process fluid is not found in the database. Such a form allows auser to collect data to select, quote and design a mechanical seal. Thesystem may present a glossary of terms used in the system for varioustechnical terms used in the sealing industry and by technicalassociations involved in the mechanical seal industry.

Such a system may be implemented as a computer apparatus, in hardware,software, or a combination thereof, to perform the functions of any ofthe previous embodiments. For example, the computer system may comprisea memory (such as a floppy disk, compact disk, or hard drive) whichcontains a computer program or data structure, for providing to ageneral purpose computer, instructions and data for carrying out thefunctions of the various aspects of the system.

An example, computer system with which the present invention can beused, may include a pointing device, an alphanumeric entry device, adisplay, a processor, a memory, and a removable storage device, allcoupled together via a communications bus. It should be understood thatthis system is merely illustrative, and that the present invention isnot limited to use with a system having this specific configuration, asother configurations are possible.

The pointing device may, for example, be a joystick, trackball or mouse.The alphanumeric entry device may include a keyboard which allows a userto provide textual numeric, or other keyed inputs into the system. Thepointing device together with the alphanumeric entry device may bereferred to as an input device, which may also include other provisionsby which a user may enter data, such as a voice command input device.The display may be a CRT screen or similar device which allows the userto visualize interactions with the computer system, and includes adisplay controller to translate information from the communications businto control information to control the display. The processor may be ageneral purpose computer. The memory may consist of memory devices suchas hard disk drives or optical disk drives, RAM, ROM, or other memorydevices and combinations thereof. The removable storage device may be azip disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, a tape drive, or a diskette drive. Theremovable storage device is typically used to load, backup, or updatethe operating system of the computer system, and to load applicationsoftware and data including the seal selection software and data.

This system may be developed using a number of computer programmingtools, including general purpose programming languages and databaseprograms. In one embodiment, the system of FIG. 2 is implemented usingscript files developed using a File Maker Pro software applicationrunning on a Windows95 operating system. The databases are implementedusing database script files and the operations of the various modulesalso are implemented as scripts for accessing those data files. Itshould be understood that the present invention is not limited to aparticular computer programming language or database programming system,or operating system. It also should be understood that the databases maybe defined as a single data file, as a spreadsheet file, as a databasescript, or may be generated by more than one computer file.

Seal selection software, including computer programs which implementaspects of the system, may be stored on some type of removablecomputer-readable storage media such as a CD-ROM, tape, or diskette. Thesoftware may be copied to a permanent form of storage media on thecomputer system (e.g., a hard disk) to preserve the removable storagemedia for back-up purposes. When the seal selection software is in use,the software is generally at least in part stored in RAM within memory,and is executed on the processor. When running the modeling software onthe computer system, a user typically gives commands and enters data viathe input device.

Having now described an embodiment of the invention, it should beapparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is merelyillustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of exampleonly. Numerous modifications and other embodiments are within the scopeof one of ordinary skill in the art. It should be understood that theforegoing is merely an example of a system for selecting mechanicalseals. The present invention also may be used to provide for a selectionof bearings, o-rings, couplings, pump parts, labyrinth seals and lipseals. It also should be understood that, although the invention hasbeen described in the context of a predetermined set of possible seals,that the system may be expanded to include seal designs, gland andsleeve designs, and designs for auxiliary products that may bedeveloped. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to anyparticular set of seals, pumps, equipment, or other parts related tosuch systems. These and other modifications are contemplated as fallingwithin the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims andequivalents thereto.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for generating a computernumerically controlled program, the apparatus comprising: a specifiermodule having a first input that receives data defining a characteristicof a piece of equipment, a second input that receives data defining adesired characteristic of a seal for use in the piece of equipment, andan output that provides a profile of a seal that is compatible with thepiece of equipment; and a computer numerically controlled programgenerator, having an input that receives the profile of the seal and anoutput that provides a computer numerically controlled program formachining an element of the seal based upon the profile of the seal, sothat the seal is compatible with the piece of equipment.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a seal design module thatreceives the profile of the seal and an output that provides dimensionsbased upon the profile of the seal, the dimensions defining the sealsuch that the seal is compatible with the piece of equipment.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein the seal design module further provides atleast one custom manufacturing print for the seal that is compatiblewith the piece of equipment.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a proposal generator that provides a proposal formanufacturing the seal so that the seal meets the desired characteristicand fits the piece of equipment.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, whereinthe proposal includes at least one of price information, modificationnotes, warnings, a bill of materials, an order form, a dimensionverification form, and a plant standardization survey.
 6. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the piece of equipment includes a pump.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 6, wherein the data defining the characteristic ofthe piece of equipment includes an identification of a process fluid forthe pump.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the data defining thecharacteristic of the piece of equipment includes dimensions thatdescribe the piece of equipment.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe data defining the characteristic of the piece of equipment includesa description of an environmental operating condition of the piece ofequipment.
 10. A computer operated method for generating a computernumerically controlled program, the method comprising the steps of:receiving a first input defining a characteristic of a piece ofequipment; receiving a second input defining a desired characteristic ofa seal for use in the piece of equipment; and automatically generating acomputer numerically controlled program for machining an element of theseal based upon the first input and the second input, so that the sealis compatible with the piece of equipment.
 11. The method of claim 10,further comprising a step of generating dimensions based upon the firstinput and the second input, the dimensions defining a seal that iscompatible with the piece of equipment.
 12. The method of claim 11,further comprising a step of generating at least one custommanufacturing print for the seal that is compatible with the piece ofequipment.
 13. The method of claim 10, further comprising a step ofgenerating a proposal for manufacturing the seal that meets the desiredcharacteristic and fits the piece of equipment.
 14. The method of claim13, wherein the proposal includes at least one of price information,modification notes, warnings, a bill of materials, an order form, adimension verification form, and a plant standardization survey.
 15. Themethod of claim 10, wherein the piece of equipment includes a pump. 16.The method of claim 15, wherein the characteristic of the piece ofequipment includes an identification of a process fluid for the pump.17. The method of claim 10, wherein the characteristic of the piece ofequipment includes dimensions that describe the piece of equipment. 18.The method of claim 10, wherein the characteristic of the piece ofequipment includes a description of an environmental operating conditionof the piece of equipment.
 19. An apparatus for generating a computernumerically controlled program, the apparatus comprising: means forreceiving a first input defining a characteristic of a piece ofequipment; means for receiving a second input defining a desiredcharacteristic of a seal for use in the piece of equipment; and meansfor generating a computer numerically controlled program for machiningan element of the seal based upon the first input and the second input,so that the seal is compatible with the piece of equipment.
 20. Theapparatus of claim 19, further comprising means for generatingdimensions based upon the first input and the second input, thedimensions defining a seal that is compatible with the piece ofequipment.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20, further comprising means forgenerating at least one custom manufacturing print for the seal that iscompatible with the piece of equipment.
 22. The apparatus of claim 19,further comprising means for generating a proposal for manufacturing theseal that meets the desired characteristic and fits the piece ofequipment.
 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the proposal includesat least one of price information, modification notes, warnings, a billof materials, an order form, a dimension verification form, and a plantstandardization survey.
 24. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the pieceof equipment includes a pump.
 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein thecharacteristic of the piece of equipment includes an identification of aprocess fluid for the pump.
 26. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein thecharacteristic of the piece of equipment includes dimensions thatdescribe the piece of equipment.
 27. The apparatus of claim 19, whereinthe characteristic of the piece of equipment includes a description ofan environmental operating condition of the piece of equipment.
 28. Anapparatus for generating a computer numerically controlled program,comprising: a database of templates of computer numerically controlledprograms, specifying operations for a program for machining an element,without dimensional information; and a computer numerically controlledprogram generator, having an input that receives the profile of the sealand templates from the database of templates for the seal, and an outputthat provides a computer numerically controlled program for machining anelement of the seal based upon the profile of the seal, so that the sealis compatible with the piece of equipment.
 29. A method for making amechanical seal, comprising the steps of: preparing templates ofcomputer numerically controlled programs, specifying operations for aprogram for machining an element, without dimensional information; andreceiving a profile of a seal and the templates for the seal; andgenerating a computer numerically controlled program for machining anelement of the seal based upon the profile of the seal, so that the sealis compatible with the piece of equipment.